Phyllophoridae

Phyllophoridae is a family of sea cucumbers within the order Dendrochirotida. They are commonly known as “burrowing sea cucumbers” or “trumpet sea cucumbers” due to their distinctive shape and behavior. Phyllophoridae are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, which are often covered in papillae or tubercles. These sea cucumbers are typically found in marine environments, inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms, and often burrow into the sediment to avoid predation.

Gravel Sea Cucumber – Neopentadactyla mixta

Neothyonidium parvum

Magnum Sea Cucumber, Large Burrowing Sea Cucumber, Sea Basket Sea Cucumber – Massinium magnum

Massinium maculosum

Common Names

Phyllophoridae are commonly known as:

  • Burrowing sea cucumbers
  • Trumpet sea cucumbers

Characteristics

Phyllophoridae exhibit several distinctive characteristics:

  • Elongated, cylindrical body
  • Covered in papillae or tubercles
  • Possess a single, long tentacle ring
  • Often have a muscular, retractable proboscis
  • Burrowing behavior

Environments

Phyllophoridae are predominantly found in marine environments, inhabiting:

  • Sandy bottoms
  • Muddy bottoms
  • Deep-sea trenches
  • Coral reefs

References