"Yet two of these species, the white and black teatfish, represented more than 20 per cent of the Queensland fishery's recent total catch. "Teatfish are listed on CITES - the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species - which provides a strong basis to restrict their harvest and export," Dr Wolfe said. One fast-disappearing group of tropical sea cucumbers, known as teatfish, was of particular concern. "They're seen as a delicacy to some, but sea cucumbers are the earthworms or vacuums of the sea, helping keep the seafloor clean and productive - they're critical for healthy ocean ecosystems." "The data shows populations of some of the highest-valued species have been dwindling due to increasing and persistent global overharvest." "The Great Barrier Reef is home to 10 of the world's 16 endangered or vulnerable sea cucumber species," Dr Wolfe said. A team led by The University of Queensland's Dr Kenny Wolfe said fishery data collected along Australia's primary sea cucumber fishing ground showed the need for regulatory changes.
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