Actinopyga lecanora
©Lyle Vail: Actinopyga lecanora at night. Note the pale patch surrounding the anus and the five anal teeth.
©Lyle Vail: Actinopyga lecanora at North Point at night. The posterior is at right and the pale patch is not visible.
©Anne Hoggett: Unusual colour pattern of Actinopyga lecanora at Lizard Island. Specimen removed from crevice, anus is at left.
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Echinodermata
Class
Holothuroidea
Order
Aspidochirotida
Family
Holothuriidae
Genus
Actinopyga
Species
Actinopyga lecanora
Colours
Distinguishing features
All species of Actinopyga have distinct anal "teeth" that are visible in the field. None of the Actinopyga species eject cuverian tubules when disturbed.
Actinopyga lecanora is mottled with various shades of brown and distinct paler patches, including a large pale patch at the posterior end. The body wall is thick, firm and smooth. It is usually hidden during the day, active at night.
Size
- Size data has not been obtained.
Depth range
- Depth range data is not yet available.
Synonyms
Distribution
©Atlas of Living Australia: Australian distribution
Distribution and habitat preferences
Actinopyga lecanora is usually hidden deep within the reef during the day, becoming fully exposed at night.
Behaviour
Spawning has been observed at Lizard Island in December and January, from 5.30 to 7.50 pm.
Web resources
References
- Cannon, L.R.G. and H. Silver (1986). Sea Cucumbers of Northern Australia Queensland Museum, Brisbane. LIRS catalog number 229.