The mysterious sea-star wasting syndrome killed many sea stars along the Pacific coast since 2013. (Photo Credit: Alison Leigh Lily, flickr)
Researchers announced they have found a virus that may be the cause of a mysterious disease that infects dozens of sea star species along the Pacific coast between Alaska and Mexico, including off the coast of Vancouver since 2013.
A study shows that sea star wasting disease (SSWD) could be caused by a very small virus (∼25 nm) known as a densovirus. Sampling of museum sea star specimens and the marine environment also revealed that the virus has been present in sea stars for at least 72 years and persists in plankton and marine sediments.
The findings also suggest that sea urchins could be an environmental reservoir for the virus that may explain past outbreaks.
Original research paper published in PNAS on November 17, 2014.
Names and affiliations of selected authors
