Summary:
1. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums has approved the Sunflower Sea Star Program for the SAFE initiative.
2. The program aims to save the sunflower sea stars from extinction and reestablish their populations on the West Coast.
3. Ben Morrow, an aquarist and co-leader of the program, will guide the efforts.
4. Sea star wasting disease has caused a drastic decline in sunflower sea star populations.
5. The program seeks to raise awareness and collaborate with other institutions to protect and conserve these fascinating creatures.
We are now seeing stars in an AZA SAFE Program near you!
The Sunflower Sea Star Program, approved by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as part of the SAFE initiative, is taking action to conserve and protect the sunflower sea star species. These sea stars are at risk of extinction, and through the joint efforts of zoos, aquariums, and field experts, the program aims to reestablish their populations on the West Coast.
Ben Morrow, an experienced aquarist and elected Sunflower Sea Star Program co-leader, will provide guidance and expertise in this endeavor. With his knowledge and passion for marine life, Morrow is dedicated to ensuring the success of the program and the survival of the sunflower sea stars.
The urgency of this program can be seen in the alarming decline of sunflower sea stars. Between 2017 and 2020, a staggering 5.75 billion sea stars died due to sea star wasting disease, resulting in a devastating global decline of 94.3%. This disease has wreaked havoc on sea star populations, threatening their existence.
The Sunflower Sea Star Program aims to combat this crisis by raising awareness and actively working to protect and conserve these magnificent creatures. By collaborating with other zoos, aquariums, and field experts, the program aims to pool resources and knowledge to develop effective strategies for reestablishing sunflower sea stars on the West Coast.
Furthermore, the program seeks to engage the public and inspire them to participate in conservation efforts. Through educational programs, exhibits, and outreach activities, visitors to AZA-accredited facilities will gain a deeper understanding of the plight of the sunflower sea stars and the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems. The program hopes to motivate individuals to join the fight against species extinction by creating a sense of connection and empathy.
In addition to its conservation efforts, the Sunflower Sea Star Program emphasizes the need for further research and data collection. Understanding these sea stars’ biology, behavior, and ecological roles is crucial for implementing effective conservation measures. By studying their habitat requirements, reproductive patterns, and susceptibility to diseases, scientists can develop targeted strategies to enhance their survival and long-term viability.
The Sunflower Sea Star Program offers hope in the face of significant challenges. By working together and leveraging our collective expertise, we can make a difference in conserving these beautiful and unique creatures. The program envisions a future where sunflower sea stars thrive again, their vibrant colors and distinctive shapes adorning the coastal waters of the West Coast.
As we embark on this journey, we invite you to join us and participate in something meaningful. Visit AZA-accredited facilities near you to see these magnificent sea stars up close and learn about their crucial role in our marine ecosystems. By supporting the Sunflower Sea Star Program and other conservation initiatives, you can contribute to preserving biodiversity and protecting our natural heritage.
So, be inspired, be motivated, and be the change we need to ensure the survival of these incredible creatures. Together, we can make a difference and secure a brighter future for the sunflower sea stars.
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Source Description
Now, seeing stars in an AZA SAFE Program near you!
The Sunflower Sea Star Program has been approved for launch by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Animals with a designated program under SAFE, “Saving Animals from Extinction,” are at risk of extinction. Working alongside other zoos, aquariums and field experts, we’re excited to share our expertise and help reestablish populations of these sea stars on the West Coast under this united front.
There to help guide us in the right direction: Ben Morrow, one of our aquarists and elected Sunflower Sea Star Program co-leader.
Between 2017 – 2020, 5.75 billion sunflower sea stars died from sea star wasting disease, a 94.3% global decline. To learn more beyond our video: https://www.aza.org/safe-species
