Response of cultured Holothuria atra to thermal and salinity stressors: growth, survival rates, and physiochemical studies

This study investigated the response of cultured Holothuria atra, a sea cucumber species inhabiting the Red Sea's Egyptian coast off Hurghada City, to thermal and salinity stressors. It aimed to identify the growth, survival rates, and physiochemical adaptations of H. atra to understand their potential for aquaculture in the region. The study used a range of experimental manipulations to expose the species to different temperature and salinity conditions, measuring key physiological responses such as respiration rate, execration rate, and growth rate. The results suggested that thermal and salinity stressors significantly impacted H. atra, with growth rates decreasing and physiological function disrupted under extreme conditions. As revealed, temperature and salinity variations harm the H. atra growth as it showed a noticeable decline under any deviation from their typical temperature and salinity conditions. The species also exhibited some adaptive responses, i.e., evisceration, regeneration (autotomy), and survivorship. Overall, the study offers important insights into the potential for sea cucumber aquaculture in the Red Sea, highlighting the need for careful management of environmental conditions to maintain optimal health and growth.