Scientists have finally identified the cause of death for millions of starfish in the form of a densovirus. The epidemic started last year on the Pacific Coast of North America. Researchers got alarmed when thousands of starfish were wasted on the shores of North America and appeared as if they “melted”. Since then, a series of government agencies, researchers, aquariums and other organizations have struggled to identify the cause of the starfish wasting disease. After months of research, scientists have identified the virus as the “sea star associated densovirus” or SSaDV. This particular virus appears to be different from all other known viruses that affect marine wildlife. SSaDV first attacks the starfish’s arms, causing them to fall off. The organism dies after its internal organs start spilling out through the skin. Read more http://www.utahpeoplespost.com/2014/11/melting-of-millions-of-starfish-caused-by-virus/
