Reproduction, recruiment and hydrodynamics in the crown-of-thorns phenomenon on the Great Barrier Reef: introduction and synthesis

Abstract

Few phenomena have had as great an impact on marine ecosystems in Australia, or generated as much interest, solicitude and contention, as outbreaks of the coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). The two recent periods of activity of the starfish (1962-77 and 1979 to present) have had greatest impact in the central third of the GBR (about 15-20°S), where is it estimated that about two-thirds of reefs have been affected (Moran 1986; Moran et al. 1988; Reichelt et al. 1990). After these infestations it takes about 15-20 years for coral cover to replenish, but the time for recovery of biodiversity of corals, particularly of communities of massive species (Done 1988; Endean et al. 1988; Cameron et al. 1991), may be much longer.