Generalized life cycle of the sea cucumber: Males and females spawn in shallow water (less than 16 m) during June to August, and assume a "cobra-like" posture while releasing gametes. Fertilization occurs in water column. Larvae drift as plankton for about 7-13 weeks, then settle and develop into juvenile sea cucumbers. Juveniles are secretive, usually hiding in macroalgae holdfasts, dense mats of filamentous red algae, under rocks or in rock crevices. Adults may reach 500 mm and may live to over 8 years.

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