Blog: sea stars

Feb 04

Aquarium hosts sea star wasting summit

On January 14 and 15, the Seattle Aquarium convened a gathering of experts from around the country to discuss the latest findings about sea star wasting disease (SSWD). The disease causes sea stars to waste away, giving the impression of “melting.”

Oct 22

A continuing problem: sea star wasting disease update

In late 2013, millions of sea stars began dying along the entire west coast of North America and in Puget Sound—even along the Seattle waterfront, directly under the Aquarium’s pier. The condition, soon labeled sea star wasting disease (SSWD), caused the animals to waste away, giving the impression of “melting.”

Jul 01

Seattle Aquarium sea star wasting disease update

Since the end of October 2013, the Seattle Aquarium has been actively collaborating with a variety of institutions—including the Vancouver Aquarium, SeaDoc Society, Cornell University, the Wildlife Conservation Society and the USGS National Wildlife Health Center—to respond to the ongoing unusual mortality event occurring in sea stars along the West Coast.

Dec 10

Seattle Aquarium update on mysterious sea star disease

The strange “melting” of sea stars in Puget Sound and along the West Coast has attracted much media attention. Below, Seattle Aquarium staff veterinarian Lesanna Lahner shares an update on our participation in the effort to understand the disease.

Nov 04

Seattle Aquarium works with experts to understand mysterious sea star condition

As you may have seen in a recent KING 5 News segment, some sunflower stars in British Columbia, Washington and California—and even along the Seattle waterfront—have been suffering from a condition that gives the impression of "melting."

Dec 21

Winter Fishtival January 1: Tide Pool Animals

Join the Seattle Aquarium for Winter Fishtival, where we’ll feature different sea animals and fun activities each day. January 1 is all about the many fascinating creatures that make their homes in tide pools.

Dec 31

Winter Fishtival: Tide Pool Animal Fun Facts

Join us for hands-on activities, special talks and opportunities to learn more about the care and feeding of the Aquarium's fish, birds, tide pool animals and marine mammals during Winter Fishtival! Each day we'll highlight a different sea animal and activity. Today’s featured animals live in tide pools. Here are some fun and interesting facts about tide pool animals.