A viral Instagram video has captured the moment a man helped a struggling green sea turtle by removing a giant pineapple sea cucumber that had latched onto its flipper. The clip, posted by @travelismy_sidechick, has now reached 4.2 million views.

The creator explained that sea cucumbers have powerful suction and can sometimes attach themselves to other marine life, making movement difficult. In this case, the turtle appeared to swim directly toward him, as if seeking help.

He stressed the importance of respecting wildlife: “It is important never to touch sea turtles. Read their behaviour to identify if your presence is one of acceptance or stress, and respect their space if it is the latter.”

After the cucumber was removed, the turtle lingered nearby, which the creator interpreted as a sign of appreciation.

Did you know Sea Cucumbers have powerful suction and can latch themselves onto other marine life like this Green Sea Turtle? This girl seemed to be swimming towards me for help and I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to help her! It is important to never touch sea turtles, read their behavior to identify if your presence is one of acceptance or stress and respect their space if it is the latter. From the way this girl hung around after I felt she appreciated the help! Would you help a sea turtle that needed help?

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