Feeding regime of sea cucumber Stichopus herrmanni on coral reefs of southeast of the Qeshm Island, Persian Gulf

Abstract

Sea cucumbers are the echinoderms that have an important role in benthic habitats by feeding activity. In this study we investigate that what is sea cucumber Stichopus herrmanni eat in corals reef of Southeast Qeshm Island in Persian Gulf. For this aim qualitative Analysis of gut content was done and It was found various types of diatoms, algae, small benthoses and detritus plant and animals and sediment. Also Environmental factor including Temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity and turbidity were measured to know living conditions of this species.