Bacterial Cause of Starfish Wasting Disease Identified

Context:

After more than a decade of research, scientists have identified the bacterium Vibrio pecsiniensis as the pathogen behind the mass die-off of starfish along the Pacific coast.

Vibrio pectenicida – The Pathogen

A marine bacterium previously known to infect shellfish, now identified as the cause of SSWD.

Discovery

Detected in the coelomic fluid of infected sunflower sea stars.
Specifically, strain FHCF-3 was found responsible for initiating the disease.

Symptoms & Progression in Starfish

Starts with external lesions.
Leads to twisting of arms, tissue breakdown, disintegration, and death.
Entire body turns to mucus-like consistency in a few days.

Sunflower Sea Star (Pycnopodiahelianthoides)

A large, fast-moving marine echinoderm.
Plays a keystone predator role in coastal ecosystems, especially in controlling sea urchin populations.

Habitat

Native to the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to Baja California.
Found on rocky seabeds and kelp forest beds, mainly in temperate coastal waters.

Key Features

Size: Can grow up to 1 meter (3.3 ft) in diameter.
Mobility: Moves at 1 meter per minute via thousands of tube feet.
Arms: Has 16 to 24 soft, flexible arms.
Coloration: Bright orange, red, purple, or brown — provides camouflage.
Feeding: Predates on sea urchins, clams, snails, and other invertebrates.
Circulation: Uses a water vascular system and coelomic fluid for nutrient and gas exchange.