Holothuriidae

Holothuriidae is a family of sea cucumbers, marine invertebrates belonging to the class Holothuroidea. Commonly known as sea cucumbers, these animals are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies and leathery skin. They are found in all the world’s oceans, inhabiting a wide range of environments from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea.

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 Holothuriidae family exhibit several distinctive features. Their bodies are typically elongated and cylindrical, with a mouth at one end and an anus at the other. They lack distinct heads and have a radial symmetry, meaning their bodies are organized around a central axis. These sea cucumbers possess a unique water vascular system that aids in locomotion, feeding, and respiration.

The most notable feature of Holothuriidae is their ability to eviscerate their internal organs, including the digestive tract and respiratory trees, as a defense mechanism. This process, known as evisceration, involves expelling the organs through the anus, which can deter predators. The expelled organs are then regenerated over time. They also have a leathery, rough skin with microscopic ossicles, or skeletal elements, embedded in the dermis.

Environments

Holothuriidae species can be found in a wide range of marine environments, including:

  • Shallow coastal waters: They are common in rocky shores, sandy beaches, and seagrass meadows.
  • Deep sea: Some species inhabit the deep ocean floor, adapting to extreme pressures and limited light.
  • Coral reefs: They are often found living amongst coral colonies, where they feed on detritus and algae.

Common Names

Holothuriidae species are commonly known as sea cucumbers, a name that reflects their cucumber-like shape. Other common names include:

  • Sea slugs
  • Sea polyps
  • Trepang

The name trepang is particularly associated with several species in the family that are highly prized for their culinary uses in East Asian cuisine.

References

For more information on the Holothuriidae family, you can refer to these reliable resources: