Sunflower Sea Stars:
Scientists have finally identified Vibrio pectenicida as the bacterium causing sea star wasting disease (SSWD), which led to the loss of over 5.8 billion sunflower sea stars across North America since 2013.A large, fast-moving marine predator with up to 24 arms; vital in regulating underwater ecosystems by preying on sea urchins. Native to the Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska to Baja California, dwelling on kelp beds and rocky seabeds. IUCN Status: Listed as Critically Endangered due to mass mortality from SSWD.
