Common name: lolly fish (holothurian)

General information

The Black Sea Cucumber, also known as the Lollyfish, is a species of sea cucumber found in tropical Indo-Pacific waters. It is recognized by its leathery skin and elongated body, which is usually black or dark brown. This echinoderm is capable of expelling its internal organs as a defense mechanism, a process known as evisceration.

Care

Holothuria atra is a detritivore, feeding on decaying organic matter on the substrate. In the aquarium, they require a sand bed for foraging and a stable environment with high water quality. They are sensitive to changes in water parameters, so regular monitoring is essential.

Reproduction

Sea cucumbers, including Holothuria atra, reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, sexual reproduction is rare, but they can reproduce asexually through a process called fissiparity, where the animal splits into two parts, each regenerating the missing half.

Symbiosis

Holothuria atra has a symbiotic relationship with certain species of shrimps and fishes that clean its body surface, removing parasites and dead skin. This interaction is beneficial for both the sea cucumber and its symbionts.

Habitat

This species is commonly found on reef flats and lagoons, often partially buried in the sand or under rubble during the day. They are distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific.