A major breakthrough in marine biology reveals Vibrio pectenicida as the culprit behind a devastating starfish wasting disease.
This bacterial strain has caused a dramatic 90% decline in sunflower sea star populations across North America.
Researchers confirmed the bacteria's role by analyzing the sea stars' coelomic fluid, which acts like blood.
This discovery opens doors to potential solutions such as captive breeding programs and developing targeted probiotic treatments.
