Pearsonothuria
Pearsonothuria is a genus of sea cucumbers in the family Synaptidae. These echinoderms are characterized by their elongated, worm-like bodies and are commonly found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Common Names
Members of the genus Pearsonothuria are often referred to as "burrowing sea cucumbers" due to their habit of inhabiting sediment.
Characteristics
Pearsonothuria species exhibit several distinguishing features:
- Elongated, cylindrical body shape.
- Lack of tentacles.
- Presence of numerous, small, tube feet.
- Mouth located at the anterior end of the body.
- Anus located at the posterior end of the body.
Environments
Pearsonothuria species are typically found in soft sediments, such as sand and mud, in shallow coastal waters. They are often burrowed within the sediment, where they feed on organic matter.