Stichopus regalis reaches 40 cm. Deep Mediterranean sea cucumber with trapezoidal-section cylindrical body, brown-orange to beige with distinctive conical dorsal papillae in rows. Lives from 5 to 800 m on sand and deep muddy bottoms of Mediterranean. Very important commercial fishery in Catalonia (Spain) and Italy for its white longitudinal muscles (espardenya), highly prized gastronomic delicacy. Deeper than H. forskali and H. poli. Rarer photo subject due to deep habitat outside recreational zone.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the Espardenya sea cucumber?
Espardenya sea cucumber (Stichopus regalis) reaches 20–40 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Espardenya sea cucumber?
Espardenya sea cucumber is found between 5–800 m deep.
Is the Espardenya sea cucumber dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Espardenya sea cucumber?