The scientists have now found that sea urchins contain a chemical that can lure sea stars away from the coral. The sea urchins' lure consists of two unsaturated fatty acids. Although initial attempts to distract the sea stars have met with rather humble results, the Japanese researchers are optimistic. The experiments are promising, as they demonstrate a functioning principle.
Coral extinction is especially worrisome off the coast of Japan.
To date, all attempts to get a grip on the problem have failed. 27 percent of the world's coral reefs have already disappeared. If nothing is done about it, an estimated 40 percent will be destroyed by the year 2010.