Researchers say they have identified the mysterious killer of more than 5 billion sea stars
Summary
Scientists have discovered that bacteria caused the death of over 5 billion sea stars on the Pacific coast of North America, which began in 2013. This epidemic significantly reduced several sea star species, especially the sunflower sea star. Understanding the cause may help in efforts to restore both sea star populations and the kelp forests they help maintain.Key Facts
- Over 5 billion sea stars died from a disease that started in 2013 on the Pacific coast from Mexico to Alaska.
- More than 20 sea star species were affected, with the sunflower sea star population declining by about 90%.
- Scientists identified bacteria, specifically Vibrio pectenicida, as the cause of the disease.
- Early theories wrongly suspected a virus; bacteria were found in the sea stars' coelomic fluid.
- The decline in sea stars led to a rise in sea urchin populations, which harmed kelp forests by about 95% in Northern California.
- Restoring sea star populations is important for controlling sea urchin numbers and helping the kelp forest ecosystems recover.
- New strategies may include breeding healthy sea stars or using probiotics to boost immunity.
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