Spawning, larval development and juvenile growth of the tropical sea cucumber Holothuria leucospilota

The tropical sea cucumber Holothuria leucospilota (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) is one of the most widespread sea cucumber species with high economic value. To develop the artificial breeding methods of H. leucospilota, we conducted the first detailed study on the processes of spawning, embryonic and larval development, and juvenile growth of the species. The results showed that the suitable breeding season of H. leucospilota in the Daya Bay might be from June to October and that at least 30 days were needed for embryos to develop into juveniles at a temperature of 29−33 °C, a salinity of 27−30‰, and a pH of 7.9−8.2. The survival rate of the juveniles were approximately 8.5%, the average growth rate during days 31−49 of culture was 0.11 mm per day and increased to 0.72 mm per day during days 73−120. The body color of the juveniles was transparent yellow at approximately 55 days of culture, and it began to darken at 79 days later. These results indicated that an artificial culture method of H. leucospilota was realized. Our research might contribute a feasible way to the artificial breeding, natural resource restoration, and sustainable use of tropical sea cucumbers.