@newatlantislabs: Purple starfish (Pisaster ochraceus) are crucial keystone species in rocky intertidal habitats along the western coast of North America. As top predators, they control mussel populations, preventing these competitive bivalves from dominating space and outcompeting other species. This creates a diverse community of marine organisms, such as algae, barnacles, anemones, and invertebrates, contributing to overall biodiversity. Furthermore, purple starfish play a significant role as ecosystem engineers. Their ability to wedge into crevices and attach to rocks alters microhabitats, providing refuge for smaller organisms and influencing the distribution of other species. Their presence creates resilient ecosystems that can withstand environmental challenges. However, purple starfish faced a decline due to a sea star wasting disease outbreak in the early 2010s, revealing their crucial role. With their populations reduced, mussel populations exploded, leading to a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem imbalance. Recognizing and preserving the importance of purple starfish is essential for safeguarding the delicate balance and health of marine ecosystems along the coast. #edit

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2023-08-08 02:38:43

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