Starfish epidemic that killed 5 billion finally solved
The Weather Channel · Just In
The Weather Channel
Just In
Scientists have finally solved the mystery behind the devastating starfish wasting disease that has killed over 5 billion starfish across the Pacific Ocean since 2013.
Breakdown
- Since 2013, around 5 billion starfish have died in the Pacific due to a mysterious disease.
- The disease affected over 20 starfish species from Mexico to Alaska, causing lesions and limb loss. 10s
- Scientists have identified the cause as the bacterium Vibrio pectinocida. 21s
- The cause of the outbreak itself is still unknown. 26s
- The discovery may help researchers fight the disease and rebuild starfish populations. 30s