“Restoring Sunflower Sea Stars: Reviving a Keystone of the Kelp Forest” with Dr. Jason Hodin
Dr. Hodin is at the forefront of efforts to understand and restore the sunflower sea star (Pycnopodia helianthoides)—a massive, brightly colored echinoderm once abundant along the Pacific Coast, now listed as critically endangered after being devastated by sea star wasting disease. As an apex predator, sunflower stars keep purple urchin populations in check; without them, urchins overgraze kelp forests, unraveling entire coastal ecosystems.
At Friday Harbor Labs, Dr. Hodin and his team are conducting pioneering research into the life history and disease ecology of sea stars. They recently helped identify Vibrio pectenicida as a likely causative agent of sea star wasting and are rearing sunflower sea stars in captivity—from larvae through juveniles—to document life stages never before closely studied. These efforts not only advance science but also form the foundation for restoration programs, where captive-bred stars may one day be reintroduced to struggling kelp forest ecosystems.
Dr. Hodin’s presentation will highlight the scientific detective work behind solving the mystery of sea star wasting, showcase the delicate process of raising stars in the lab, and explore the ecological ripple effects of losing—and potentially restoring—this keystone species. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how the health of kelp forests, salmon, sea otters, and countless other species are connected to the fate of sunflower stars.
Subtitles and Closed Captioning will be provided for our guests who are deaf and hard of hearing. The EWC also offers Assistive Listening devices available to check out or connect with your smart phone.
Reserve your seat online ~ walk-ins are welcome the night of the event based on available seating.
ONLINE TICKET SALES END AT 4pm ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Special thanks to our program partner The Port of Edmonds and our media sponsor Edmonds Beacon!
