Fauna
Invertebrate

Tiger's Tail Sea Cucumber

Holothuria thomasi

Also known as Tiger Tail Sea Cucumber, Thomas's Sea Cucumber

Tiger's tail sea cucumbers stretch their long, mottled bodies out from reef crevices at night to sweep the surrounding sand for organic debris. Growing up to two meters in length, these gentle giants blend seamlessly into the coral rubble, using their highly effective camouflage to evade detection during the day. They play a vital role in reef health by turning over and cleaning sandy sediments.

NocturnalCamouflagedReef-Dweller
Tiger's Tail Sea Cucumber reference
(c) Pauline Walsh Jacobson, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Pauline Walsh Jacobson · cc-by
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyDetritus, Microalgae, Benthic microbes
Predators
  • Sea stars
  • Crabs
  • Large predatory fish
ThreatsHabitat degradation, climate change, and marine pollution
HabitatsCoral reefs, rocky crevices, and sandy sea floors
Life span5 to 10 years
Classification
  1. FamilyHolothuriidae
  2. SpeciesHolothuria thomasi
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance; avoid touching to prevent stress.
Responsible observation
  • Look in Crevices: Search for their distinctive mottled bodies extending from reef cracks, especially during night dives.
  • Do Not Touch: Avoid handling them, as stress can cause them to expel their internal organs as a defense.
  • Watch the Tentacles: Observe the delicate, flower-like feeding tentacles as they sweep the sand for food.
Related species
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