“If you remove all the scum suckers in the great fish tank of Earth, you’re going to get a dirty tank eventually”
Referred to as the rainforests of the sea, coral reefs serve as habitats for 25% of all marine organisms, despite only covering less than 1% of the ocean’s area. However, due to various human-generated stresses and coral disease associated with ocean sediments, most of the world’s coral has disappeared.
Mark Hay, a prominent ecological researcher, highlights the significance of coral reefs and the impact of their decline on biodiversity. The removal of key organisms like sea cucumbers has disrupted the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
Read Also: Houthis sink Red Sea ship putting reefs at risk
In a groundbreaking study, Hay and his team unraveled the vital role sea cucumbers play in maintaining coral health. These humble creatures, often overlooked, act as natural cleaners of the ocean floor by consuming sediment.
The research, published in Nature Communications, sheds light on the consequences of overharvesting sea cucumbers and the subsequent decline in coral health.
A Missing Component
The research originated from Hay’s observation of historical records depicting the abundance of sea cucumbers in tropical oceans. He and his team embarked on a study to understand the impact of sea cucumber populations on coral reefs.
Clements’ field work in French Polynesia revealed a surprising connection between sea cucumbers and coral health. Removing sea cucumbers from coral patches led to increased coral mortality, indicating a crucial link between these organisms.
An artificial reef in Eilat
This study signifies the critical role of sea cucumbers in maintaining coral health and preventing disease outbreaks. Hay and Clements advocate for conservation efforts to protect sea cucumber populations and restore their presence in marine ecosystems.
Comments
