Decade-Long Mystery Finally Solved
Canadian scientists have pinpointed the culprit behind the devastating sea star wasting disease that has ravaged marine ecosystems for over a decade. The discovery identifies Vibrio pectinicida, a bacteria related to the one that causes cholera in humans, as the cause. Researchers say this breakthrough could be the first step toward restoring a species critical to ocean health and climate resilience.
A Species on the Brink
The sunflower sea star, once abundant from Baja California to Alaska, suffered a catastrophic decline beginning in 2013. The disease twisted their arms, caused them to shed limbs, and dissolved their bodies within days. An estimated 87% of northern populations have been lost, while southern populations are now considered functionally extinct.
Cracking the Case
For years, theories about the cause failed to hold up. The research team at the Hakai Institute took a different approach — infecting healthy sea stars in controlled experiments using tissue and fluids from sick ones. Over 92% of these test cases developed the disease and died within 20 days. Genetic analysis revealed Vibrio pectinicida as the consistent link.
Evidence That Stands Up
Marine biologists and conservation experts praised the study for its thoroughness, noting that the researchers built multiple layers of proof. They followed a clear investigative pathway — from isolating the pathogen to confirming it caused the outbreak — leaving little doubt about their conclusion.
Hope for Recovery
Identifying the cause opens the door to targeted conservation. Breeding programs can now screen for the bacteria before releasing sea stars back into the wild. Field testing for the pathogen will help gauge ongoing risks, improving the odds of restoring healthy populations without triggering new outbreaks.
Ecosystem Ripple Effects
The loss of sea stars has triggered a surge in sea urchin populations, which in turn has decimated kelp forests along the Pacific coast. Kelp forests are vital for biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal protection. Restoring sea stars could help reverse these impacts, creating stronger ecosystems and natural defences against climate change.
A Vital Climate Ally
Scientists stress that saving sunflower sea stars isn’t just about protecting one species. Their return would stabilize food chains, revive kelp forests, and enhance ocean health — benefits that directly support human resilience in a warming world.
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