13/05/2025
Sea Star Wasting Disease (SSWD) is a mysterious illness that has devastated starfish populations along the Pacific Coast of North America. Since 2013, it has caused mass die-offs, leading to decaying tissues, limb loss, and death. Researchers have long suspected a viral or bacterial cause, but environmental factors—especially water temperature—may play a critical role.
A recent study suggests that colder water could offer some protection against SSWD. Experiments showed that sea stars in cooler environments had slower disease progression and higher survival rates. This finding aligns with observations that outbreaks often worsen during warmer periods.
