Diadema Mortality and Coral Reef Impact

Diadema antillarum, a keystone herbivore on Caribbean coral reefs, experienced a catastrophic mortality event in the 1980s, leading to a significant shift from coral to macroalgae dominance. Despite some recovery, the current mortality event is progressing rapidly, similar to the past, but with advanced scientific tools and a response network in place. This study aims to investigate the demographic and environmental factors contributing to the mass mortality in Florida and Puerto Rico, identify the pathogen responsible, and assess the immediate impact on reef conditions. By employing comprehensive field sampling, histological assessments, and microbiome analyses, the research seeks to understand the disease process, its ecological consequences, and inform future conservation strategies. This event provides a unique opportunity to address critical questions about disease ecology and its role in shaping marine community structures.