In Nunavut’s Sanikiluaq, a remarkable discovery of a vast undersea nursery housing billions of baby sea cucumbers is shedding light on the species, potentially paving the way for economic benefits for the Arctic community. The Sanikiluaq Hunters and Trappers Association is considering the commercial value of adult sea cucumbers, particularly in Asian markets like China and Japan.
Collaborating with Memorial University in Newfoundland, researchers explored the Orange-footed sea cucumber species, also known as Cucumaria frondosa, in 2018. Led by Annie Mercier, a professor from the university’s ocean sciences department, the team, with the assistance of local residents, unearthed the nursery the following year, much to their excitement.
According to Mercier, the discovery of this nursery, detailed in a 2023 Polar Science journal article, marks the first known occurrence of a Cucumaria frondosa nursery. The tiny pink speck-like baby sea cucumbers, less than two millimeters in size, are abundant on rocks and mussel shells near the ocean surface, contrasting with their adult counterparts found deeper underwater.
The nursery, estimated to extend along the Belcher Islands archipelago coastline at a depth of one to three meters, has opened up new avenues for research, offering insights into the growth and behavior patterns of these creatures. This information is crucial for the conservation and management of the species.
During a research trip to Sanikiluaq, Joséphine Pierrat, a postdoctoral researcher at Memorial, identified various sea cucumber specimens, showcasing the abundance of these marine organisms in the area. The community’s involvement in data collection is vital for potential future commercial ventures, such as a sea cucumber fishery alongside existing scallop fishing plans.
While the regulatory processes may be lengthy, the community sees the economic potential and job creation opportunities a fishery could bring. Mercier emphasized the importance of sustainable management practices to prevent overexploitation, highlighting the delicate balance needed in sea cucumber fisheries worldwide.
For the Sanikiluaq community, the prospect of a dual market strategy is promising, with adult sea cucumbers targeted for drying and export while younger specimens cater to local consumption. Sea cucumbers, a versatile food source, can be enjoyed raw or roasted, offering a crunchy and salty culinary experience.
In conclusion, the discovery of this undersea nursery not only enriches scientific knowledge but also presents a promising avenue for economic development and sustainable resource management in the Arctic region.