Sea star wasting syndrome impacts on intertidal and human communities

The recent outbreak of sea star wasting syndrome (SSWS) along the North American west coast is one of the most widespread disease outbreaks ever documented in a marine species. SSWS has caused system-wide depletion of Pisaster... [ view full abstract ]

The recent outbreak of sea star wasting syndrome (SSWS) along the North American west coast is one of the most widespread disease outbreaks ever documented in a marine species. SSWS has caused system-wide depletion of Pisaster ochraceus, a charismatic tidepool sea star species. As the original keystone predator, Pisaster is disproportionately responsible for maintaining the structure and functioning in intertidal communities. Thus, the SSWS outbreak presents a rare opportunity to improve scientific understanding of community response to top predator loss, test major tenets of ecological theory at an unprecedented scale, and connect the public with ecology and ocean science.

Since 2013, Pisaster population densities have declined dramatically along the Oregon coast. However, recent surveys suggest relatively high juvenile abundance, indicating potential for population recovery. Effects on intertidal communities vary spatially; understanding what is driving these differences is relevant to marine ecosystem management as disease outbreaks will likely increase with global change. In addition to conducting basic research on the spread and ecological consequences of SSWS, we have employed a multi-pronged approach to engage different audiences in our science. We have presented our research at academic conferences, interest group meetings, and public events. We have engaged citizen scientists in documenting SSWS virulence, geographic spread, and sea star population recovery. Finally, we have explored new outreach pathways including through the creation of a corporate partnership with Rogue Ales and Spirits to raise public awareness about ocean health and research funding.