15/07/2026
One piece of research really made me stop and think.
Scientists analysed DNA from more than 100 species of Great Barrier Reef fish and discovered Crown-of-Thorns Starfish DNA in 18 different reef fish species.
This suggests that many reef fish may naturally prey on Crown-of-Thorns eggs, larvae, juveniles or even adults, providing the reef with an important natural line of defence.
It also raises an important question.
If healthy fish populations help keep Crown-of-Thorns numbers in check, what are the long-term consequences of overfishing?
We know Crown-of-Thorns outbreaks are influenced by many factors, including water quality, ocean conditions and larval survival. But reducing the abundance of fish that naturally prey on them could also weaken the reef’s ability to regulate itself.
Nature has evolved a delicate balance over millions of years. Every fish has a role to play.
Perhaps protecting reef fish isn’t just about sustaining fisheries. Perhaps it’s one of the keys to protecting the Great Barrier Reef itself.
Food for thought.
MarineScience ProtectOurReefs
