Special Edition Bionews: Concerning Die-off of Long-spined Sea Urchins

Long-spined sea urchins (Diadema antillarum) play a critical role in maintaining healthy coral reefs.  By grazing on algae, these sea urchins keep algae growth in check while also providing settlement space for corals. Unfortunately, this species was decimated in the mid-1980s, when a disease spread throughout the Caribbean, nearly wiping out their entire population.  Alarmingly, since February 2022, new reports identify similar extensive die-offs. Scientists and local reef managers are working to identify causes and improve restoration approaches.

In this Special Issue Bionews  you will find information concerning:

• • Background and Current State
  • Restoration Efforts
  • What you can do to help
  • Other related articles (see below)

Dead and dying long-spined sea urchins. Photo credit: Kimani Kitson-Walters