Tiger Tail Cucumber (Holothuria sp.)

Species Name : Holothuria sp.

Care Level : Expert Only

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Tan

Diet : Omnivore

Water Conditions : 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Max. Size : 18 inches

Venomous : Poisonous When Stressed or Dies

Origin : Indo-Pacific

Family : Holothuriidae

Supplements : Trace Elements

The Tiger Tail Cucumber (Holothuria sp.), also known as the Sand Sifting Sea Cucumber, are easy to care for, reef safe, and hardy.

Their brown body and white horn-like protrusions are instantly recognizable and make for a fascinating addition to any tank. In the home aquarium, the maximum length of most is 12 to 18 inches. It eats detritus, diatoms, and scraps of meaty foods from the sand that passes through its body.

For best care, the Tiger Tail Sea Cucumber should be kept in larger systems with thick sand beds and rocky caves for shelter. One Tiger Tail Cucumber is sufficient for a 60 gallon aquarium. Like other cucumbers, it is important to change the water monthly and have a tank with moderate lighting and moderate waterflow. Also make sure to protect it from being sucked into an overflow box or pump intake. It does have the ability to release toxins into the aquarium that could poison fish although it is extremely unlikely.

Do not keep with aggressive fishes that are not safe with invertebrates. 

The Tiger Tail Cucumber can reproduce by fission (one individual splits into two), and can live for several years in the home aquarium. 

Sea Cucumbers are herbivores and spend their time eating detritus, sediment and diatom and micro algae from sandbed.