Holothuria atra
42cm
0-30m
793 sites
Holothuriidae
The Lollyfish Sea Cucumber (Holothuria atra) is a common sight for divers and snorkelers exploring shallow tropical waters. Often resembling a dark, unassuming log on the seabed, these fascinating invertebrates are an integral part of the reef ecosystem. You'll typically find them in sandy or muddy areas, sometimes partially buried. While they may not be the most visually striking creature, observing them up close reveals their vital role as underwater vacuum cleaners, constantly sifting through sediment for organic matter. Their dark colouration and sausage-like shape make them relatively easy to spot, and their slow, deliberate movements are a calming presence on any dive. Keep an eye out for them in estuaries and neritic zones, from the surface down to around 30 meters. While they won't win any beauty contests, their ecological importance and unique feeding behaviour make them a worthwhile observation on any dive.
Lollyfish Sea Cucumbers are typically dark brown or black, with a long, cylindrical body that can reach up to 60cm. They have a smooth, leathery skin and often appear slightly flattened against the seabed. Unlike some sea cucumbers, they lack prominent tubercles or spines. Their most distinguishing feature is their habit of lying exposed on the substrate, often partially buried in sand or mud. Divers can easily identify them by their sausage-like shape and dark colouration against the lighter seabed.
