Deep-sea holothurians (Echinodermata, holothuroidea) from the colombian southern caribbean sea

Abstract

Fifteen morphotypes of deep-sea holothurians were documented by photography or videography at depths of 596– 2,566 m, using Remote Operated Vehicles (ROV) video surveys and towed camera transects, during hydrocarbon exploratory activities in the Colombian Southern Caribbean. Most of the morphotypes were identified to the species level based on the images. The species belong to four orders, Apodida (1 species), Persiculida (3 species), Elasipodida (8 species), and Synallactida (3 species). Four species, three genera, and three families are reported for the first time in the Colombian Caribbean Sea. Some of the reports also represent first records for the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.