27/10/2006 - Fiji Faithful #2 - Pearsonothuria graffei, 1868

Posted in Fiji Faithful - Common Critters
Graffiti Sea Cucumber.
These animals can be found all over Fiji's reefs, using their water-vascular driven suction-cups to clamber around in search of food. Protruding from the front, around their mouths, are several long 'feet' which they use to feel their way around and gather detritus. Organic matter is separated and digested and the remiaining sand is expelled from the anus. Good Gogglers know that the strings of sand-beads that are observed hanging around the reef are the turd-graffiti left behind by these particular creatures.




If you happen to notice several Graffiti Cucumbers stading up on end in a small area then have a close look and you may notice smokey-looking gametes being released; you are watching sea cucumber sex!



  
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