Yesterday while surrounded by literally 1000’s of beginner surfers, floaters and swimmers, a 10 year old boy asked his dad, “what’s this?” I asked permission to give the wide eyed inquisitive young man a lesson in nature.
From eviseration to echinodermata, I shared some information, asked questions and suddenly something incredible happened…. A tiny crab perfectly micmicing the intricate patterned of shell debris stuck to the sea cucumber emerged into view. Now totally mesmerized, I explained in 5th grade terms “commensalism” and how incredibly cool his find was. As we were just a few feet away from a sea of humanity on the beach, I suggested we release his critter to a patch of coral rubble further offshore.Holothuria atra, the sea cucumber is known locally as the Loli or Lolifish and it’s harmless ride along is Lissocarcinus orbicularis, the sea cucumber or harlequin crab.
But when I zoomed in and noticed the intricacy of the relationship, I became fascinated well into the wee hours of last night with a thirst to learn more.
While I have seen sea cucumbers covered with sand for decades, I never really considered how cool this was! Some of the sand coating merely sticks to the bumpy texture of the sea cucumber’s body. Other tiny specks of sand and shell debris are held tight by an intricate water vascular system with specialized tube feet to grab a body armor. Together these actions help design a festive and protective costume, incredible!
Then throw a crab into the mix that has evolved an impressive strategy of survival, micmicing the shell pattern of its host.
I am thankful for curious 10 year olds in this most popular Waikiki Beach. Happy holidays to all!
