Crown-of-thorns starfish can help reefs thrive
New research from the University of Sydney suggests that Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) may not be purely destructive to coral reefs when populations are controlled. The study found that healthy ecosystems can sustain COTS feeding without total colony loss.
Why it matters
This challenges long-standing ecological assumptions about a major reef predator, potentially shifting conservation strategies for the Great Barrier Reef.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Crown-of-thorns starfish. Credit: Shawna Foo Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) are infamous in the marine world. Their toxin-loaded thorns give them a menacing appearance, and they have a reputation as destroyers of coral reefs. New research from the University of Sydney challenges the perception of COTS as purely destructive. The findings suggest controlled populations can have a positive impact on coral prevalence and diversity.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in