Morgan Stuart Pratchett
Professor
Prof Morgan Pratchett is a marine conservation ecologist with extensive knowledge of coral reef ecosystems. His current research focuses on major disturbances that contribute to widespread declines in the abundance of hard corals, and corresponding changes in the structure and function of coral reef ecosystems. This includes population irruptions (or outbreaks) of coral eating crown-of-thorns starfish. Morgan has been studying crown-of-thorns starfish for 30 years and made substantial contributions to understanding and managing the threat posed by periodic outbreaks.
May 10, 2026
Where Are We At With Crown of Thorns?
Coral reefs are under immense pressure around the world. Climate change, oil spills, pollution, plastics and tourists are all contributing. But for more than 60 years, we've been aware of another threat that is part of the reef ecosystem itself. The Crown of Thorns Starfish is voracious, venomous and very, very hard to stop. Professor Morgan Pratchett from James Cook University has spent three decades studying the creature in an effort to fight back.
Guest: Morgan Stuart Pratchett