Book Description

The main species of holothurian exploited in the South Pacific are Holothuria scabra, H fuscogilva and H. nobilis, which have high commercial value, Actinopyga echinites, A. miliaris and Thelenota ananas, of medium commercial value, and Holothuria atra, H. fuscopunctata and H mauritiana, whose commercial value is low. Knowledge of the biology of these species is reviewed in detail, as are resource assessment methods. An example of the possible use of remote sensing for estimating potential is given. Harvesting and processing techniques and commodity grading are also discussed, while a chapter focussing on the principal markets for bêche-de-mer, Hong Kong and Singapore concludes that an increase in exports from the countries and territories of the South Pacific is possible if they can supply a consistently good-quality product on a regular basis.