Outbreaks
From coraldigest
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/