California Sea Cucumber (Apostichopus californicus)

Description: The California sea cucumber is also known as the giant red sea cucumber, being the largest species of sea cucumber on the West Coast. They are able to grow nearly 50 cm long! They are typically dark red, brown, or yellow. These sea cucumbers also have noticeable spikes (papillae) all around the body that are typically lighter in color than the main body. While they look sharp, these spikes are fleshy and soft to the touch.

Habitat: This species can be found from the low intertidal zone to depths of 75-90 m. They prefer hard substrates like gravel, rocks, and shell debris, in areas that are sheltered from strong waves and currents. California sea cucumbers can be found from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska to Baja California, Mexico.

Diet: The California sea cucumber is a deposit feeder, meaning it scoops up organic matter and microorganisms from bottom sediment. They are also able to take up nutrients through the respiratory organ in their anus.

Tide Pool Tidbits:

• Some populations of the California sea cucumber in the Puget Sound, WA have been found to lose almost all of their internal organs during fall and then re-grow a completely new set. This is done without eviscerating their guts!

• They are frequently eaten by sea stars, sea otters, and fish.

• This species reaches reproductive maturity between 4 to 8 years old, and can live up to 12 years old.

Reference: Walla Walla University, UCSD - CA Sea Grant