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Family: Stichopodidae
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Bocas Species Database Habitat: Tends to occur in deep, calm reef habitats, not subject to constant wave action or strong bottom surge. It is generally found on sandy substrates, in or around seagrass beds. Distribution: Caribbean Natural History Notes: A. multifidus is uncharacterstically animated for a sea cucumber. Individuals do not firmly attach to the substrate and often crawl slowly across the bottom as they feed. Stomach contents consist almost entirely of calcareous sediment including bivalves, gastropods, foraminiferans, bryozoans, and the remains of other calcified organisms. The species readily eviscerates via the anus when held in stagnant seawater, such as during transport to the laboratory. Depth: 1-37m, most commonly deeper than 3m Characteristics: The largest individuals are 50cm long and weigh 2.5kg. The upper and lateral surfaces are covered with hundreds of 3-5mm high, conical papillae. The ventral surface is flattened, wider than the dorsal surface, and covered with a dense layer of cylindrical tube feet. The body wall is fairly thin and soft. The upper surface of most individuals is mottled brown and white, with translucent white papillae. |
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