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Spawning occurs mostly from late March to April and is accomplished by releasing both eggs and sperm into the water, known as external fertilization. Microscopic examination of the gonad is the only reliable way to distinguish males from females. The gonad is located along one side of the body cavity. Sea Cucumbers can be bread sexually or asexually. During the release of the eggs and sperm, the Sea Cucumbers go into a cobra-like posture, with their front end elevated off the bottom. The fertilized eggs develop into larvae, which may spend 70 days as plankton, floating in the water before settling to the ocean floor, and changing into juvenile Sea Cucumbers. Juveniles are very secretive, hiding among the sea weed and crevices. Growth is slow, requiring at least 4-5 years for adult size.