Ecological effects of Diadema mass mortality. In 1983, an unprecedented, Caribbean-wide dieoff of the urchin Diadema antillarum occurred. Densities of this herbivore decreased drastically in reef environments throughout the region. The resulting reduction in grazing pressure has been implicated in a significant increase in algal cover on coral reefs. Recovery from the dieoff has been limited.
Many questions remain unanswered.
Questions Remaining Hughes, T.P. 1994. Catastrophes, Phase Shifts, and Large-Scale Degradation of a Caribbean Coral Reef. Jackson, J.B.C. 1997. Reefs since Columbus. Coral Reef Symp.