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Updated: Feb 7, 2026
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Apoptosis Induction and Detection in a Primary Culture of Sea Cucumber Intestinal Cells
Published on: January 21, 2020
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Anthropogenic particles accumulation in sea cucumbers: insights from a transitional environment
Monique Mancuso1, Chiara Anastasia Bruno1, Ilaria Guardamagna1
1Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM)-CNR, Messina, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Centre, Palermo, Italy.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|February 5, 2026
Summary
Sea cucumbers ingest various anthropogenic particles (APs), including plastics, neoprene, and cotton, highlighting their role as bioindicators for marine pollution. This study reveals a complex mixture of APs in Mediterranean sea cucumbers, emphasizing transitional environments
Area of Science:
- Marine Ecology
- Environmental Toxicology
- Benthic Ecology
Background:
- Sea cucumbers are crucial detritivores in marine ecosystems, aiding bioturbation and nutrient cycling.
- Their sediment-ingesting habits make them vulnerable to anthropogenic particle (AP) contamination, impacting ecosystem functions.
- Rising plastic pollution poses a threat to marine life and ecosystem health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and types of anthropogenic particles (APs) in two sea cucumber species, Holothuria sanctori and H. tubulosa.
- To assess the suitability of these holothuroids as sentinel species for monitoring plastic contamination in transitional marine environments.
- To provide the first comprehensive analysis of APs in sea cucumbers from the Capo Peloro Natural Reserve.
Main Methods:
- Raman spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy were employed for particle identification.
- Analysis focused on sea cucumber specimens collected from the transitional coastal waters of the Capo Peloro Natural Reserve.
- Quantification and identification of synthetic polymers, elastomers, rubber, petroleum derivatives, and natural fibers were performed.
Main Results:
- A wide spectrum of 18 AP types in H. sanctori and 17 in H. tubulosa were identified, exceeding previous reports.
- Commonly detected APs included neoprene and cotton, alongside 12 synthetic polymers, 3 elastomers, rubber, petroleum derivatives, and dyed cellulose.
- The study confirmed significant AP contamination in sea cucumbers from this Mediterranean transitional environment.
Conclusions:
- Sea cucumbers exhibit a high capacity for accumulating diverse anthropogenic particles, including plastics and natural fibers.
- Holothuria sanctori and H. tubulosa serve as effective sentinel species for assessing AP contamination in transitional marine ecosystems.
- Findings underscore the pervasive nature of microplastic pollution and the need for improved waste management in coastal areas.
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