Sea Stars as Guardians of Kelp Forest Revival

A study by UC Santa Cruz researchers found that sunflower sea stars deter red sea urchins from grazing on kelp, creating a 'landscape of fear' that could aid in kelp forest recovery, especially after sea star populations declined due to disease. The research suggests that reintroducing sea stars might be a less labor-intensive method to control urchin populations and restore kelp ecosystems, which are vital for marine biodiversity and the economy.