Abstract
The ability to swim was recorded in 17 of 32 species of deep-sea holothurians during the RRS James Cook ECOMAR cruise in 2010 to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Holothurians were observed, photographed, and video recorded using the ROV Isis at four sites around the Charlie-Gibbs Fracture Zone at approximate depths of 2,200–2,800 m. For eleven species swimming is reported for the first time. A number of swimming species were observed on rocks, cliffs and steep slopes with taluses. These habitats are unusual for deep-sea holothurians, which are traditionally common on flat areas with soft sediment rich in detritus. Three species were found exclusively on cliffs. Swimming may provide an advantage in cliff habitats that are inaccessible to most epibenthic deposit-feeders.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
