‘Earthworms’ of the sea facing danger

Over-harvest has put the Great Barrier Reef’s tropical sea cucumber populations in peril, researchers have revealed, with strong demand for this delicacy from East and Southeast Asia.

A team led by The University of Queensland’s Dr Kenny Wolfe said fishery data collected along Australia’s primary sea cucumber fishing ground showed the need for regulatory changes.

“The Great Barrier Reef is home to 10 of the world’s 16 endangered or vulnerable sea cucumber species,” Dr Wolfe said.

“The data shows populations of some of the highestvalued species have been dwindling due to increasing and persistent global overharvest.”

“They’re seen as a delicacy to some, but sea cucumbers are the earthworms or vacuums of the sea, helping keep the sea floor clean and productive – they’re critical for healthy ocean ecosystems.”

One fast-disappearing group of tropical sea cucumbers, known as teatfish, was of particular concern.

“Populations of teatfish are most at risk because of their high market value and poor reproduction,” Dr Wolfe said.