A team of at least 15 scientists from six organizations has identified the bacteria that causes a deadly disease killing sunflower sea stars in the Pacific Ocean. The study, published in “Nature Ecology and Evolution,” marks a major breakthrough in understanding the cause of the disease, which has killed over 90% of the species since its emergence in 2013.
The pathogen, Vibrio pectenicida, was found to be present on sick sea stars but not healthy ones. Researchers collected wild sunflower sea stars from six locations and conducted controlled experiments, ultimately identifying the bacteria through DNA analysis.
This discovery has raised hopes for recovering the species and ecosystems harmed by their decline. The study’s results could lead to potential treatments and restoration of kelp forests, which rely on sea stars to control voracious sea urchins.
The researchers’ collaboration involved The Nature Conservancy, the Tula Foundation, and institutions like the University of Washington and the U.S. Geological Survey. The team worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic, quarantining themselves while collecting data from wild sea stars.
Lead researcher Melanie Prentice revealed an “aha” moment when she noticed a high presence of vibrio pathogens in sick sea stars. The team broke down genetic sequences and confirmed Vibrio pectenicida as the culprit.
The study’s findings have sparked possibilities for recovering the species, including diagnostic tests, captive breeding programs, and probiotics to help sea stars fight off disease. Researchers hope to reintroduce healthy sea stars into the wild to restore populations and ecosystems damaged by the decline of sunflower sea stars.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/08/06/pacific-ocean-pathogen-sea-star-deaths-identified/85516641007