A sluggish invertebrate, Sea Cucumbers are prolifically found throughout the sandy lagoons of Mackay Reef, you can’t miss them! Their chunky sausage-like shape is easily recognised even when they are covered in sand.
These unsuspecting invertebrates act like vacuum cleaners when they feed, feasting on the detritus or the “left overs” of decomposing marine organisms assisting with the recycling of nutrients. This might not sound overly appetising, however during their feeding process they are performing an important function known as bioturbation – which essentially means they are aiding in the aeration of the seabed helping to enhance the overall health of this critical habitat.
Although majority of Sea Cucumber encounters are not overly interactive like some of our other marine life, they are just as crucial to have in high numbers on any reef system. Appearing relatively dormant, they do have the ability to move! Albeit at a snail’s pace, using their tube like feet they are able to make it across from one area of a sandy lagoon to the next leaving behind a distinctive foot print in the sand.
Our Master Reef Guide Brooke has been conducting weekly reef health surveys, with frequently recorded sightings of these important recycling vacuums which is a positive indicator to the overall health of Mackay Reef.
