Orange-footed Cucumber

The Orange-footed sea cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa) is the largest sea cucumber in New England（USA）

Description 19" (48 cm) long, 5" (127 mm) wide. Cucumber-shaped. Dark reddish-brown above, paler beneath, paler in young specimens, tube feet orange-tinted. Round, long, tapered to rounded point at rear, somewhat tapered at head end; soft, smooth. Neck with mouth and tentacles retractable; 10 highly-branched tentacles that can extend 1/2 body length or more. 5 crowded rows of tube feet, 2 on upper side, 3 below.
Habitat On rocky shores, overhanging rocks, in crevices; from low-tide line to water 1208' (368 m) deep.
Range Arctic to Cape Cod.
Discussion This is the largest and most conspicuous sea cucumber in New England.

Benefits

The benefits of sea cucumbers are numerous. Due to the large amounts of chondroitin sulfate found in it, the sea cucumber is used to ease joint pain and conditions like arthritis. Modern studies show that sea cucumbers improve the balance of prostaglandins, which are helpful for musculo-skeletal inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and arthritis of the spine. In addition, some people use sea cucumber to help the kidneys and treat frequent urination as well as give an instant energy boost. Modern research also indicates that sea cucumbers could help treat malignant growths and diseases due to its fatty acids. These benefits have gained attention, and scientists in many countries believe that certain extracts from sea cucumbers may help stop the growth of cancer cells.