Florida Sea Cucumber
$14.95
Description
Florida Sea Cucumber – Holothuria floridana
Overview:
The Florida Sea Cucumber (Holothuria floridana) is a fascinating and beneficial addition to many saltwater aquariums, particularly reef and live-sand systems. Native to the shallow seagrass beds and sandy bottoms of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, this detritivore plays a vital role in keeping your tank clean by consuming organic debris and processing sand.
Appearance:
Holothuria floridana is typically a mottled brown to dark tan in color with a soft, elongated body that can grow up to 6–10 inches in length. It has a distinct leathery texture and can contract or elongate its body depending on its movement and stress level.
Aquarium Benefits:
This species is a natural sand-sifter, helping oxygenate the substrate and reducing waste buildup. It improves water quality by consuming leftover food, detritus, and microalgae trapped in the sand.
Care Requirements
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Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons with a mature sand bed
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Substrate: Fine sand (essential for burrowing and feeding)
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Feeding: Primarily feeds on organic matter in the sand; supplemental feeding rarely necessary if enough detritus is available
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Reef Safe: Yes – peaceful and non-aggressive
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Lighting & Flow: No special lighting needed; prefers moderate water flow
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Tank Mates: Compatible with most reef-safe fish and inverts; avoid aggressive or predatory species that may harass it
Important Notes
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Acclimation: Drip acclimate slowly over 1–2 hours to prevent stress
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Caution: Like many sea cucumbers, H. floridana can release toxins if severely stressed or injured. Though this species is considered less toxic than others, it should still be handled gently and not kept with overly aggressive tankmates.
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Avoid Overcrowding: One specimen is recommended per 20–30 gallons of sanded substrate to ensure adequate feeding grounds.
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Tank Maturity: Best suited for well-established aquariums with a healthy population of microfauna
Summary:
Holothuria floridana is a low-maintenance, beneficial invertebrate that contributes to a healthy tank ecosystem. Ideal for hobbyists seeking a natural way to manage detritus, it adds a touch of nature’s clean-up crew while requiring little effort in return.