ISSN:
1432-0975
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract The rate of decomposition of 67 crown-of-thorns starfish was monitored over 7–9 days on 2 reefs of the Great Barrier Reef in 7 permanent quadrats in different depths and habitats. The pattern of decomposition was similar in all quadrats irrespective of the site or depth. Many different organisms, including crown-of-thorns starfish, fed on or scavenged the remains. Despite this activity the remains could be recognised as crown-of-thorns starfish for up to 5 days. The reason for the sudden disappearance of starfish at the ends of outbreaks is briefly discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00357432
