Holothurie De Sable

Overview

Parastichopus regalis, commonly known as the royal sea cucumber, is a distinctive echinoderm found in the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a deposit-feeding species that plays a vital role in marine ecosystems by processing soft sediments and enhancing nutrient cycling.

Appearance

This species typically reaches lengths of up to 35 cm. Its body is soft, elongated, and noticeably flattened, featuring a distinct, sole-like ventral surface. The dorsal side is generally mottled brown to orange with irregular, pointed papillae, while the ventral surface is paler with a darker central longitudinal streak. A prominent lateral fold, lined with large papillae, separates the dorsal and ventral regions.

Distribution & habitat

It is primarily found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic, ranging from the British Isles and Ireland down to the coasts of Africa, including the Canary Islands and the Azores. It typically inhabits soft, detritic substrates such as sand or mud, often at depths between 100 and 300 meters, though it can be found from 5 to 800 meters.

Biology & behavior

P. regalis is a deposit feeder that consumes organic matter from the seafloor. It is known to host the pearlfish (Carapus acus), which may reside within the sea cucumber for protection. The species follows an annual reproductive cycle, with gonad maturation occurring in the spring and spawning taking place during the summer months. It is sensitive to high temperatures, with survival potentially compromised above 23°C.