Common name: Royal Sea Cucumber

General information

The Royal Sea Cucumber, Parastichopus regalis, is a large and colorful echinoderm that is quite popular among advanced marine aquarium hobbyists. It is known for its striking appearance, with a leathery skin and an array of colors that can include shades of brown, green, and red. This species is native to the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean and is one of the largest sea cucumbers in these regions.

Care

Caring for Parastichopus regalis requires a spacious tank with a well-established sand bed, as they are detritivores that sift through the substrate to feed on organic matter. They are sensitive to water quality and require stable conditions with low nitrate levels. It's important to ensure that the aquarium does not have aggressive fish or invertebrates that might harm the sea cucumber.

Reproduction

In the wild, Parastichopus regalis reproduces by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, a process known as broadcast spawning. In captivity, breeding is rare, but hobbyists can encourage reproduction by maintaining a group of individuals in a large, species-specific system with excellent water quality.

Symbiosis

While Parastichopus regalis does not have any specific symbiotic relationships that are commonly observed in the aquarium trade, it plays an important role in the ecosystem by processing detritus and helping to maintain a clean substrate.

Habitat

Parastichopus regalis is typically found in a range of coastal habitats, from rocky areas to seagrass beds, at depths of up to 100 meters. They prefer cooler water temperatures and are often found partially buried in the substrate during the day.