Sea cucumbers are a diverse group of marine invertebrates belonging to the class Holothuroidea, found on ocean floors around the world—from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea environments. Despite their simple, tube-like appearance, sea cucumbers play an essential role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

One of their most important functions is processing sediment. As they feed, sea cucumbers ingest sand and organic matter, digest nutrients, and excrete cleaner sediment. This natural recycling improves water quality and helps maintain balanced seabed habitats, much like earthworms do in soil. Their feeding activity also redistributes nutrients, supporting other organisms within the benthic community.

Sea cucumbers have fascinating defense mechanisms. When threatened, some species expel sticky internal organs to distract predators—a process called evisceration. Remarkably, they can regenerate these organs over time. Their skin also contains toxic chemicals that provide additional protection.

Because they are sensitive to environmental changes and heavily harvested in some regions, sea cucumbers are important indicators of ocean health. Studying them helps scientists understand marine nutrient cycles, habitat stability, and the impacts of human activity on seafloor ecosystems.

You can find this species in the Treasures of BC Gallery.