Recently, a substantial seizure made headlines when the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) retrieved two tonnes of sea cucumbers from the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay areas in Tamil Nadu. The sea cucumber, a marine species banned from extraction, has become a critical point of discussion and concern.
About Sea Cucumbers
Sea cucumbers are intriguing marine invertebrates that thrive on the seafloor; their habitat mainly spans tropical regions. The name ‘sea cucumber’ owes to their peculiar oblong shape reminiscent of a chubby cucumber. Approximately 1,250 unique species of sea cucumbers exist, all of them classified under the taxonomic class Holothuroidea. This class is a part of the larger Echinodermata phylum, home to many other popular marine invertebrates, including but not limited to sea stars, sea urchins, and sand dollars.
The Role of Sea Cucumbers in Marine Ecosystems
The ecological significance of sea cucumbers often goes unnoticed. They play an essential part in upholding the balance of ocean habitats. Specifically, they form a critical component of the coral ecosystem. As they digest sand, one of their main by-products is calcium carbonate—a crucial substance for the survival of coral reefs. In essence, sea cucumbers serve as the ocean’s sanitation workers, recycling nutrients and helping keep coral reefs in good health.
Potential Threats to Sea Cucumbers
The primary threat endangering the sea cucumbers species is illegal trading and smuggling. The demand for sea cucumbers is soaring in South-East Asia, especially in China. They are not only used as food but also in traditional medicine, making them a valuable commodity.
Conservation Measures for Sea Cucumbers
Several protection measures have been put in place to prevent the extinction of this vital marine creature. According to the IUCN Red List, the Brown Sea Cucumber is deemed ‘Endangered’, the Blackspotted Sea Cucumber is labelled ‘Least Concern’, and the Blue Sea Cucumber’s status remains ‘Data Deficient’. Further, the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 lists them under Schedule I, further emphasising their protected status.
An noteworthy conservation effort was undertaken by the Lakshadweep Islands administration in 2020. They established the world’s first conservation area, spanning 239 square kilometres, specifically for sea cucumbers.
Conclusion
The recent confiscation of sea cucumbers from Tamil Nadu has spotlighted the precarious position of these marine creatures and the need for rigorous protective measures. By understanding the pivotal role they play in marine ecosystems and the threats they face, we can contribute to their survival and, in turn, the health of our oceans.
