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Updated 11/5/2012

Family Synaptidae

INDO-PACIFIC / HAWAII

Synaptids are suspension-feeders having very thin skin with tiny embedded hooks used to cling to anything it comes in contact with.  For this reason they are easily damaged when handled, especially with gloves.  The body is able to expand and contract a great deal using water pressure.

 

Opheodesoma spectabilis 

Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, 35 feet

 

 Moku O Loe, Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, 5 feet

Moku o Loe, Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, 6 feet

CONSPICUOUS SEA CUCUMBER

Locally abundant on soft sand in Kaneohe Bay, rare elsewhere.  Pink with brown and white.  Attains at least 3 feet when extended.  Hawaii & the Indo-Pacific.