Spiky Sea Cucumber Genome Decoded:

A team of scientists in the Republic of Korea has sequenced the genome of Apostichopus japonicas 

 

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (Minister: Kim Young-suk) announced that Korean researchers have completed sequencing 

the genome of Japanese Spiky Sea Cucumber (Apostichopus japonicas) for the first time in the world.

The pioneering study conducted by Professor Joong-ki Park of Eawha Women’s University and Professor Chun-goo Park of South 

Jeolla University as part of a state-funded project, was published in the January version of the open-access journal GigaScience. 

The genome sequences of finfish and seaweed have sometimes decoded before, but this is the first time to draft genome of the 

spiky sea cucumber, which belongs to a group of marine invertebrates—the echinoderms. The fact that the genome sequence of 

Stichopus Japonicus—one of the most economically important species out of sea cucumbers found in the Korean waters—was 

decoded makes this discovery all the more meaningful. The resulting draft genome assembly contains a total of 21,771 predicted 

protein-coding genes, the findings which lay a firm foundation for further identification and utilization of functional genes.

Sea cucumber, often referred to as “ginseng of the sea”, has long been used as a traditional medicine since it is thought to have

medicinal values. Studies indicate that nutrients in sea cucumber enhance the immune system and boost blood circulation while

strengthening the functions of the kidney and liver. Such therapeutic properties and medicinal benefits of sea cucumbers can be

linked to the presence of a wide array of bio-actives, especially saponins and minerals. That’s why sea cucumber is popular among

health-conscious consumers from home and abroad.

The genome of the spiky sea cucumber is likely to accelerate sea cucumber breeding and aquaculture technology development. 

Taking a step forward, the genetic information is expected to help the development of high added-value health supplements.

Mr. Kang Yongseok, Director-General for Marine Environment Bureau in the Ministry mentioned that “It is said that Emperor Qin 

Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, enjoyed sea cucumber for his health and longevity. It clearly shows that how much sea 

cucumber is good for your health. Building on this study, the Ministry will spare no efforts to support the production and breeding 

of spiky sea cucumbers and explore ways to utilize it in various ways.”