Parastichopus tremulus (Gunnerus, 1767)

Parastichopus tremulus

Description: A large epifaunal sea cucumber which is normally found in deep water. Deep water specimens are normally bright red in colour but those encountered in shallow water have been white or mottled light grey. The dorsal surface is covered with spiky papillae and a ring of papillae surround the mouth. The spicules are elaborate tables. 30-50cm in length.

Habitat: Rarely found in shallow water, known from two sheltered sites on steep silt covered cliffs and on silt covered rocks.

Distribution: Known in shallow water only from cliffs on Sanday, Canna and the head of Loch Boisdale, S. Uist; both W. Scotland.

Similar Species: In shallow water the only other large epifaunal sea cucumber with short tentacles is the dark-coloured Holothuria forskali.

Key Identification Features:

• Large sea cucumber with short, deposit-feeding tentacles.
• White or grey coloration.
• Spicules numerous; tables, rods and star-like bodies.

Distribution Map: NBN map : National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

WoRMS: Species record : World Register of Marine Species.

iNaturalist: Species account : iNaturalist World Species Observations database