Sea Cucumber

Also known as or sea slug or bêche de mer, this leathery-skinned warm-water creature is found on the sea floor worldwide. It is so named because of its cucumber-like shape.

In East Asia, the sea cucumber is highly valued for its medicinal properties, where it is reputed to heal wounds more quickly and reduce scarring. It is also enjoyed as a culinary dish, sliced and eaten raw with soy sauce, vinegar or mustard. When dried, it becomes 'trepang', and used in Chinese stews and braised dishes to add a gelatinous texture.