Holothuriida

Holothuriida is an order of echinoderms commonly known as sea cucumbers. They are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies and leathery skin. Sea cucumbers are found in all oceans, from the intertidal zone to the abyssal depths. They play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, acting as detritivores and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Bohadschia koellikeri

Bohadschia maculisparsa

Eyed Sea Cucumber, Polka-dotted Sea Cucumber – Bohadschia ocellata

Brown Sandfish, Brown Sea Cucumber – Bohadschia vitiensis

Graeffe’s Sea Cucumber, Blackspotted Sea Cucumber, The Big Drop Loloata – Pearsonothuria graeffei

Sea Cucumber – Holothuria edulis

Holothuria platei

Black Sea Cucumber, Lollyfish – Holothuria atra

Holothuria (Holothuria) mammata

Sea Cucumber – Holothuria flavomaculata

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Characteristics

Members of the Holothuriida order exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including:

  • Elongated, cylindrical body with a soft, leathery skin
  • Five rows of tube feet, which are used for locomotion and feeding
  • A mouth surrounded by tentacles that capture food particles
  • A unique defense mechanism involving the expulsion of internal organs (evisceration)
  • A wide range of sizes, from a few centimeters to over a meter in length

Environments

Sea cucumbers are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:

  • Intertidal zones
  • Coral reefs
  • Seagrass beds
  • Deep-sea trenches

They are particularly abundant in tropical and subtropical regions.

References