• Red Sea coral reefs at risk from sea urchin deaths.
• Suspected disease, possible ship-related.
• Scientists investigate sources to protect the ecosystem.

The Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs are facing an alarming threat as mass sea urchin deaths, possibly caused by a mysterious disease, endanger the delicate ecosystem. These long-spined sea creatures play a crucial role by consuming algae that can smother corals. Marine biologist Lisa-Maria Schmidt warned that if this die-off continues, it could potentially devastate the entire coral reef ecosystem.

The crisis was first noticed near the Israeli Red Sea resort of Eilat, where sea urchin populations suddenly collapsed. The cause initially appeared to be pollution, but the problem swiftly spread southward along the Red Sea, affecting two sea urchin species while sparing others.

Scientists speculate that the disease might have been introduced to the Red Sea through ships’ ballast water, which can carry pathogens and exotic species. Similar mass sea urchin deaths occurred in the Caribbean, where researchers identified a pathogen, offering hope for solving the Red Sea mystery. Efforts are underway to establish a population of affected species for future release and to identify the source to prevent future outbreaks.

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