crown-of-thorns starfish

American  

[kroun-uhv-thawrnz] / ˈkraʊn əvˈθɔrnz /

noun

1. a starfish, Acanthaster planci, that feeds on living coral polyps, causing erosion and destruction of coral reefs.

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Etymology

Origin of crown-of-thorns starfish

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

During outbreaks of their carnivorous adult phase, crown-of-thorns starfish dine pervasively on stony coral, leaving lifeless skeletons across the reef.

From Science Daily • Oct. 18, 2023

Another AU$253 million will support the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, which manages the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem, in efforts to reduce threats from the crown-of-thorns starfish and to prevent illegal fishing.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 28, 2022

Measures included efforts to kill crown-of-thorns starfish and paying farmers to reduce their agricultural run-off.

From BBC • Jul. 23, 2021

While snorkeling, we were warned to steer clear of the pretty but pointed crown-of-thorns starfish, and more than once we spotted a venomous scorpionfish lurking along the bottom.

From Washington Post • Oct. 1, 2020

Villagers are also removing the crown-of-thorns starfish, which eat coral, from the reef.

From New York Times • Oct. 24, 2018