Variabilidad cromática del pepino de mar Isostichopus badionotus (Selenka 1867) (Holothuroidea: Esticopodidae) en Yucatán

Abstract

The sea cucumber Isostichopus badionotus, commonly known as choco-chip or ballenato, is a species widely distributed throughout the Caribbean and present along the coast of Yucatán, where it plays a fundamental ecological role through nutrient recycling. In addition to its ecological and fishery importance, this species stands out for its remarkable chromatic variability, exhibiting a wide diversity of color patterns and tonalities. This diversity has raised questions regarding potential taxonomic differences among individuals displaying distinct color patterns. Recent studies have revealed that some color forms previously considered variants of a single species actually represent distinct species, which can be differentiated by their genetic characteristics, color patterns, and habitat preferences. The present study aims to document the extensive color variation of I. badionotus observed during monitoring surveys conducted by the Centro Regional de Investigación en Acuícola Pesquera-Yucalpetén along the coast of Yucatán, thereby contributing to the understanding of the phenotypic diversity of this species in the region. Understanding and documenting this variability is important for improving species identification, population monitoring, and conservation and management strategies for this resource.