WASHINGTON (AP) — Scientists have solved the mystery of what killed over 5 billion sea stars — also known as starfish — off the Pacific coast of North America. Starting in 2013, a wasting disease caused a mass die-off from Mexico to Alaska, devastating more than 20 species. The sunflower sea star was worst hit, losing around 90% of its population. Researchers have identified the culprit as a bacterium that also infects shellfish. The findings, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, could help scientists intervene to save sea stars. This is crucial for Pacific ecosystems, as healthy starfish control sea urchin populations that threaten kelp forests.
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