Story perspectives

Australian Scientists Use Pheromones to Combat Coral-Eating Starfish

1/29/2026

27 5

Summary

Story summary

Scientists in Australia are developing a method to control crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) by using synthetic pheromones to attract them for culling.
COTS reproduce rapidly and consume large amounts of coral, causing ecological damage to reefs.
The approach uses the starfish's communication methods and could be more efficient than current techniques.
Field trials are needed to assess effectiveness in natural environments as researchers plan studies along the Great Barrier Reef.

1 of 1

Story summary

Scientists in Australia are developing a method to control crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) by using synthetic pheromones to attract them for culling.
COTS reproduce rapidly and consume large amounts of coral, causing ecological damage to reefs.
The approach uses the starfish's communication methods and could be more efficient than current techniques.
Field trials are needed to assess effectiveness in natural environments as researchers plan studies along the Great Barrier Reef.