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 thorns 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/