Rayong is stunned by a strange phenomenon. "Pink sea cucumbers" have covered Suan Son Beach in Rayong Province. Local fishermen believe this might indicate poor or deteriorating underwater ecosystems. Meanwhile, experts have initially collected seawater samples for testing and warn against catching or stepping on them.
On 6 June 2026, reporters reported that locals discovered "pink sea cucumbers" dead and scattered across Suan Son Beach, Klaeng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Rayong Province.
Reporters visiting the site found elongated pink aquatic creatures about the size of a thumb, mixed with seashells, washed ashore in large numbers, covering nearly 100 meters along the beach front.
Locals and tourists flocked to see the phenomenon with curiosity, as none had seen anything like it before.
Ms. Sunni, 27, a tourist, said she often visits the area and had only seen small shrimp and seashells washed ashore before. She had never seen aquatic animals of this color and felt frightened when she saw them.
Mr. Wichit, 49, a local fisherman, said the creatures are sea cucumbers, locally called “plling look yo.” They were washed ashore by waves since last night. He suggested this might indicate an unhealthy underwater ecosystem, since these sea cucumbers normally cling to coral. The ones seen are small; fully grown ones can be as large as an energy drink bottle.
A fisheries scientist from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) said seawater quality samples were collected for initial testing. The creatures are pink sea cucumbers, named for their physical appearance. The current monsoon season likely caused waves to wash them ashore.
He warned tourists that while they may observe the creatures, they must not catch them, as some people could have allergic reactions. Also, stepping on them is prohibited since some are still alive and might survive if washed back into the sea by the waves.