These echinoderms have a very important role within our reefs, as regulators of the development of algae. The latter are indeed the first competitor of the corals, architects of our coastal reefs.
Between 1983 and 1984, these Caribbean sea urchins were affected by a disease leading to massive mortality (-95 to 99% of known populations). This disaster had lasting repercussions on the state of health of our reefs.
Currently, disturbing news is reaching us from nearby islands. A new episode of mortality could be underway.
All sea lovers are invited to contact the Nature Reserve to report any observation of abnormal mortality of diademed sea urchins (>10 individuals/4m²) via:
Facebook @Reserve.Naturelle.StMartin
by email : science@rnsm.org
or by phone: +590 690 347 710
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