Bêche-de-mer, also known as trepang, is a type of edible sea cucumber found in the coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is highly valued in Chinese cuisine and is often dried and used in soups and stews. The name 'bêche-de-mer' is derived from the French term for sea cucumber, while the name 'trepang' is derived from the Indonesian word for the same creature. Bêche-de-mer is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world and is an important part of many cultures' diets.