Does it poop? An exploration of bêche-de-mer/sea cucumber gut biome

23 Mar 2025

Expedition

Public

Active

Island Sustainability Project 2025

Sub Project

Erin Robinson | Gump South Pacific Research Station

Seth Chow
sethchow@berkeley.edu

Although most individuals don’t associate sea cucumbers with coral reef health, they play an essential role in maintaining reef ecosystems. These echinoderms are found on the sea-bed worldwide and live on filtering detritus and organic matter. Sea cucumber microbiomes can offer insight into the health and diversity of a coral reef- particularly regarding the various cryptic species and microorganisms that reside within other organisms. The primary objective of this project is to conduct a feasibility study. Particularly to identify the feasibility of participation in a scientific experiment among elementary school students (9–11 years old) in collecting sea cucumbers and their feces. In other words, the main objective of this study is to ensure that elementary-aged students can meaningfully engage with scientific projects taking place in their communities.

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