The pineapple sea cucumber (Thelenota ananas) is a large, tropical echinoderm found in the Indo-Pacific region.
Named for its thick, spiky skin resembling a pineapple, this fascinating marine creature plays a crucial role in ocean ecosystems by recycling nutrients and maintaining seabed health.
Growing up to 60cm in length – that's almost as long as a tennis racket – the pineapple sea cucumber has a reddish-brown body covered in conical projections. It lives in sandy or coral reef environments, where it feeds by filtering organic particles from the sediment.
Using tube-like feet, it moves slowly across the seabed, digesting detritus and excreting clean sand, much like an earthworm in soil.
The pineapple sea cucumber has a remarkable defence mechanism; when threatened, it can expel its internal organs to deter predators – a process known as evisceration.
These organs regenerate over time, ensuring the creature’s survival.
Highly valued in traditional Asian medicine and cuisine, this species is often harvested for consumption, leading to concerns about overexploitation.
Conservation efforts are being introduced to regulate fishing and ensure sustainable populations.
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