Temporal and spatial distribution of Acanthaster planci population explosions in the Indo-West Pacific region

Recently-gathered information relating to the abundance and distribution of the asteroid Acanthaster planci on coral reefs at various localities in the Indo-West Pacific region is presented. Since 1957, population explosions of this coral predator have been observed on reefs in widely-separated areas. The infestations appear to be on an unprecedented scale. In some regions the area of reefs affected has increased progressively during the last decade. The principal infestations have occurred on accessible reefs near centres of human population, while remote reefs appear to be free from A. planci infestations. Human involvement in the initiation of the infestations is suggested.