Scientists have finally identified the bacterium, Vibrio pectenicida, responsible for a devastating starfish wasting disease.
This disease has decimated sunflower sea star populations along the west coast of North America, leading to a 90% decline.
Researchers discovered the bacterium in the sea stars' coelomic fluid, confirming its role in causing the disease.
This breakthrough offers hope for recovery efforts, including captive breeding and probiotic solutions to aid these vulnerable creatures.
