T. ananas is a grey, orange, to red sea cucumber, often with a purple cast. It is a very large species (to 600 (750) mm), square in cross section with prominent 'cockscomb' papillae over its upper surface. It has a thick but pliable body and a smooth tegument. Spicules are delicate, dichotomously branched rods without lateral spines (T. ananas spicules). T. ananas may be found on reefs, exposed on rubble.