Work

Ocean Acidification Research on Ecologically and Economically Important Sea Cucumbers Is Limited Globally

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Ocean acidification (OA) caused by increasing levels of partial pressure of carbon dioxide (CO2) and subsequent changes in seawater carbonate chemistry exerts knock-on effects on various calcifying organisms. However, little is known about the echinoderms (e.g., sea cucumbers) that are being overexploited globally for economic benefits. Most importantly, less is known about the impacts of OA on these organisms. Within this framework, the current study synthesized the available global data on the effects of OA on various sea cucumber species. Results indicate studies on OA impacts on sea cucumbers are limited to 10 species across eight countries globally, with Apostichopus japonicus being highly utilized under experimental conditions. Our results suggest that OA impacts reproduction, spawning events and sperm flagellar motility of sea cucumbers under low pH. This leads to the loss of energy allocations and reduction in somatic growth. Under low pH, the effects on Ca2+ and Mg2+ composition of calcareous ring and ossicles were species-specific and enzymatic activity was reduced. This study highlights the existing gaps that need to be addressed to prevent various knock-on effects of OA on sea cucumbers. This information is critical to managers and conservationists to manage the globally declining sea cucumber populations.

Source: Aquatic Conservation Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems

DOI: 10.1002/aqc.70128

Authors: Samson Job, Amrit Kumar Mishra

Institutions: University of Dar es Salaam, James Cook University

Language: English

Topic: Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses

Subfield: Oceanography

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,730