Outbreaks: Difference between revisions
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http://www.reefresilience.org/coral-reefs/stressors/predator-outbreaks/crown-of-thorns-starfish/ | http://www.reefresilience.org/coral-reefs/stressors/predator-outbreaks/crown-of-thorns-starfish/ | ||
Revision as of 14:39, 24 February 2015
Outbreaks
Example: Crown-of-thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef
1970s- 8 years of recorded, major coral decline due to Acanthaster planci (Crown of thornes starfish)
A. unrestricted carnivorous diet
B. causes of outbreaks
1. phytoplankton increase due to run-off
2. weather patterns like El Nino
C. possible solutions
1. reduce run-off pollution promoting phytoplankton as source of food for COTS
2. population control of COTS - ethical? safe for surrounding environment?
http://www.reefresilience.org/coral-reefs/stressors/predator-outbreaks/crown-of-thorns-starfish/