A significant discovery of a sea cucumber nursery containing billions of baby sea cucumbers has been made near Sanikiluaq, Nunavut. This discovery is aiding researchers in gaining a deeper understanding of the species and potentially opening up economic opportunities for the Arctic community.
The Sanikiluaq Hunters and Trappers Association, led by Lucassie Arragutainaq, highlighted that while the community consumes young sea cucumbers regularly, the larger adult sea cucumbers could be a valuable export to markets in China and Japan. In a move to explore commercial possibilities, the association collaborated with scientists from Memorial University in Newfoundland to study the Orange-footed sea cucumber species in 2018.
Annie Mercier, a professor at the university, along with her team, uncovered the nursery the following year with the help of community residents. This discovery was unknown to the community prior to the study.
The nursery, described as the first of its kind for the Cucumaria frondosa species, is located near the Sanikiluaq coastline and spans a significant area beneath the ocean’s surface. The baby sea cucumbers, measuring less than two millimeters, are predominantly found closer to the surface, contrasting with the adult sea cucumbers that dwell in deeper waters.
Research findings from Mercier’s team were published in a 2023 article, shedding light on the nursery’s significance and the need for further exploration. The data collected, in collaboration with the community, is crucial in advocating for a potential commercial fishery with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
The slow and careful approach to resource management is vital, as many sea cucumber fisheries globally have faced sustainability challenges. For the community of Sanikiluaq, a sea cucumber fishery could provide employment opportunities and a new food source. Plans are being considered to integrate sea cucumbers into an existing scallop fishery, with potential markets for both adult and juvenile sea cucumbers. Sea cucumbers can be enjoyed raw or roasted, offering a unique culinary experience.