The taxonomy and natural history of north European dendrochirote holothurians (Echinodermata)

Abstract

Keys and illustrated descriptions are provided for all the oendrochirote holothurians that are currently known to exist in shallow waters (<50m) around the British Isles. Descriptions of species that may be found in this area are also given. Taxonomic difficulties are discussed, particularly within the genera Ocnus, Thyone and Thyonidium. Aspects of the natural history of each species are discussed.

Keywords :

• Taxonomy
• keys
• biology
• dendrochirotes
• holothurians
• shallow water
• northern Europe