Ecological and genetical survey on two deep-sea holothurians: Benthogone rosea and Benthodytes typical

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Abstract
Ecological, biological and genetical features of 2 populations of deep-sea holothurians were studied. The 2 spp. concerned, Benthogone rosea Koehler and Benthodytes typica Theel, belong to the strictly abyssal order Elasipoda. In the 2 collection areas they represent the dominant species of the megafauna. Trophic resources and other environmental characteristics are similar at the 2 sampling sites. Trawl captures and bottom photographic surveys suggest the presence of large populations. Results of genetic studies provide the 1st published estimates of very low levels of genetic polymorphism in populations of strictly abyssal species.