Innovative Pheromone-Based Method Targets Crown-of-Thorns Starfish

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and the University of the Sunshine Coast have developed an innovative method to combat the destructive crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) by using synthetic pheromones. This approach, published in the journal *iScience* on June 19, 2025, promises a more efficient and environmentally safe means to manage these coral predators, which pose a significant threat to coral reef ecosystems around the world.

The crown-of-thorns starfish, notorious for its voracious appetite, can consume up to 200 kilograms of coral tissue over its lifespan of one to two years. Outbreaks of these starfish can devastate coral reefs, stripping large areas of their essential coral structure in a matter of months. Current methods for controlling these outbreaks predominantly rely on manual culling, a process that is labor-intensive and costly, yielding limited results.

According to Professor Noriyuki Satoh, head of the Marine Genomics Unit at OIST, the research team discovered that the starfish use their spines to detect peptides and communicate, even outside mating seasons. This insight led to the synthesis of a specific peptide that mimics natural pheromones, successfully attracting the starfish at low and non-toxic concentrations. "These peptides may promote swarming behavior, allowing us to concentrate the starfish in one area for more efficient culling," Professor Satoh explained.

The implications of this research are significant, particularly in the context of ongoing coral reef degradation due to climate change. Coral reefs are essential for marine biodiversity, supporting a multitude of species and providing vital ecosystem services. The ability to manage crown-of-thorns starfish populations effectively could help protect these ecosystems from further decline.

Dr. Richard Harris, a marine biologist involved in the study, emphasized the importance of developing pest-management strategies that are sustainable. "By utilizing a natural communication method of the starfish, we can enhance our pest control measures without resorting to harmful chemicals," he stated. This method could potentially serve as a model for future pest control strategies in other species as well.

The research findings align with a broader trend in environmental science, where the focus is shifting toward biocompatible and environmentally friendly pest management solutions. As coral reefs continue to face threats from climate change and invasive species, innovative approaches like this one may play a crucial role in their conservation.

In conclusion, the introduction of synthetic peptides as a tool to manage crown-of-thorns starfish populations presents a promising avenue for coral reef preservation. As this research progresses, it could pave the way for more effective and sustainable methods to protect these vital ecosystems from further degradation, ensuring their resilience against the challenges posed by climate change and human activities.