Starfish Disease and Ecological Impact

The video discusses a mysterious die-off of starfish along the Pacific Coast, first noticed by diver Laura James. Scientists are investigating the phenomenon, known as Sea Star Wasting Syndrome, which affects multiple species. Research includes experiments to understand disease transmission and potential causes like climate change. The video highlights the importance of citizen science in tracking the outbreak and its ecological implications.

What unusual event did Laura James first notice near her Seattle home?

• Dolphins swimming closer to shore

• Unusual algae growth

• Starfish washing up on the shores

• A sudden increase in fish population

What is the name given to the disease affecting starfish along the Pacific Coast?

• Sea Star Wasting Syndrome

• Starfish Decay Syndrome

• Oceanic Starfish Disease

• Marine Life Decline

What method do scientists use to study the transmission of the starfish disease?

• Genetic modification

• Infectiousness experiments

• Chemical analysis

• Satellite tracking

What are scientists testing as a possible way the pathogen spreads?

• Through the air

• Through sand particles

• Through shellfish

• Via bird migration

What is Drew Harvell's role in the research on starfish disease?

• She coordinates research into marine diseases

• She is a diver documenting starfish populations

• She is a marine biologist studying fish behavior

• She is a climate scientist analyzing ocean temperatures

What ecological role do starfish play in their environment?

• They are primary producers

• They are voracious predators

• They are decomposers

• They are scavengers

What is the potential consequence if juvenile starfish cannot withstand the disease?

• No impact on the ecosystem

• Immediate recovery of starfish populations

• A long-term decline in starfish populations

• Increased starfish diversity

What initiative did Laura James and her dive buddy create to track the disease?

• A documentary film

• A website for tracking social media posts

• A scientific journal

• A marine biology conference

How can citizen scientists contribute to tracking the spread of the starfish disease?

• By organizing beach clean-ups

• By tagging starfish

• By taking pictures and using #SickStarfish

• By collecting water samples

What is the main challenge in understanding the starfish disease outbreak?

• Insufficient number of scientists

• No baseline data before the outbreak

• Lack of funding for research

• Inaccessibility of affected areas