Orange-footed sea cucumber

SIZE:

Up to 50 cm in length and 13 cm in diameter.

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 

Estimated to last more than 8 years. The absence of solid parts in the orange-footed sea cucumber makes it difficult to determine its age and longevity.

LIFE CYCLE:

Estimated to last more than 8 years. The absence of solid parts in the orange-footed sea cucumber makes it difficult to determine its age and longevity.

Coastal zone, 20 m to 500 m in depth.

PREYS:

Plankton

PREDATORS:

Blood stars
Sunstars

MACHINES:

Dredging, hand-harvesting by diving.

REGULATIONS:

• Minimum legal size: 11.4 cm
• Fishing season and limited number of fishing days per year
• One permit per fishing zone

Exploratory fishing in Quebec started in 2008 with possible plans for commercial fishing. More data on the life cycle and state of the orange-footed sea cucumber stocks is needed before commercial fishing can be authorized. However, cautious harvesting will be required. It has been observed that sea cucumbers have difficulty recovering from over-harvesting.

At present, the main market for sea cucumbers is in Asia.

Orange-footed sea cucumber is a Smarter seafood listed species.

BENEFITS:

Rich in non-fat protein, minerals, and vitamins A, B, D and E. Low in calories and lipids.
Sea cucumber is believed to have beneficial effects on tendinitis. In China, it is known as sea ginseng and has been used medicinally for centuries.

LET’S COOK:

Firm, gelatinous texture. Mild flavour.

Sold dried or frozen.

Before being prepared, sea cucumbers need to be re-hydrated for 2 or 3 days. Patience and organization are needed to enjoy this delicacy.

OUR CULINARY ADVICE:

• In soups, stir-fries, or marinades, add the cucumber at the end of the preparation. It will disintegrate if overcooked.
• Since 2023, “pop-combres” (pop-corn cucumbers) have been sold on the Quebec market. They’re the perfect snack for a nice evening around the campfire.