Sea Cucumber (Holothuria sp.) Care Guide

A slow-moving detritivore that processes sand substrate, extracting organic matter and returning clean sand. Excellent for maintaining sand bed health.

Overview

Holothuria sp. is a species in the family Holothuriidae. A slow-moving detritivore that processes sand substrate, extracting organic matter and returning clean sand. Excellent for maintaining sand bed health. Some species can release toxic compounds (holothurin) when severely stressed, potentially killing tank inhabitants.

Taxonomy

Family: Holothuriidae
Genus: Holothuria
Scientific name: Holothuria sp.
Other names: Sand Sifting Sea Cucumber
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Holothuria species are sea cucumbers of Indo-Pacific reefs and sandy lagoons that ingest sand and detritus, digesting organic matter and helping keep the substrate clean. Most are reef-safe sand sifters, though some can release toxins if killed or stressed.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 200 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 10-30 cm
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as detritivore. Recommended feeding frequency: sand sifter. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Most Reef Fish, Corals
Avoid with: Triggerfish, Pufferfish, Powerheads

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.