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Invertebrates |  |
Phylum: Echinodermata, Class: Holothuroidea
Range: Indo-Pacific
Size: 6 in. Space:: 50+ gal. Diet: Phytoplankton, zooplankton
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Peaceful
Natural History: The Sea Apple is observed on coral-rich or stony reefs. It is an echinoderm with tube feet that strains the water for plankton.
Husbandry: A Sea Apple must be handled with care. Its body wall and internal organs contain poisons that can be dumped into the aquarium if its is overstressed. The poison can kill an entire reef system. It must be offered planktonic foods to survive in an aquarium. This genus is reported to favor cooler temperatures (76 to 79°F).