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Leopard Sea Cucumber (juvenile)

Pearsonothuria graeffei

Description:

Also known as Graeffe's Sea Cucumber, P. graeffei is the only species in its genus. As adults, they are pale brown and white, with black speckles and small thorn-like protuberances. As juveniles, however, they are brightly colored and resemble the nudibranch, Phyllidia varicosa. This adaptation helps the animal protect itself while still young.

Habitat:

Found in tropical parts of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, from the African east coast to the Phillipines and Indonesia. Preferred habitat are the seabed and coral reefs at depths down to about 25m.

Notes:

When I first spotted this, I thought I'd found a new kind of Phyllidia nudibranch -- it did resemble P. varicosa, but the shape was rather off. It was only when I viewed the photos after the dive that I noticed its tubed feet (see the 3rd & 4th photos). This critter measured about 1.25cm long, and it was in 14m of water when I saw it. The 5th picture is just for reference -- it shows the adult Leopard Sea Cucumber.

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Blogie
Spotted by
Blogie

Davao Del Norte, Philippines

Spotted on Jun 10, 2012
Submitted on Jun 11, 2012

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