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THE CROWN-OF-THORNS STARFISH: A PROBLEM

42. Has the true extent of the crown-of-thorns problem been suppressed in the past?

It has been suggested that there have been attempts in the past to deliberately "cover-up" the seriousness of the crown-of-thorns problem on the Great Barrier Reef. It is difficult to determine what could be gained from such a ploy. Whilst there may have been a few individuals who for personal reasons have deliberately tried to underplay the importance of the crown-of-thorns problem over the last 20 years, there is no direct evidence to suggest that this has occurred on a large scale in the scientific community, or that it has taken place at an organisational or Government level.

Suggestions of a "cover-up" seem to be based on the slow response of authorities and Governments to implement any action (in terms of controls or further research) with respect to this starfish. Contrary to the belief that this represents a deliberate attempt to underplay the true extent of the problem it is likely that this is due to a combination of some or all of the following factors:

The inability of some individuals (particularly those who have not seen at first hand the destructive powers of a large outbreak of crown-of-thorns starfish) to comprehend the large-scale of the destruction which can be caused by the starfish.
The lack of detailed scientific information concerning the extent of the activity of the crown-of-thorns starfish and its effects on the Great Barrier Reef.
The reluctance of many scientists to become involved in controversial debates and bitter recriminations.
The normal length of time it can take for issues, such as the crown-of-thorns problem, to generate sufficient public and political concern for governments to undertake some form of action.

The crown-of-thorns problem has been, and still is, a very political and emotional issue in the hearts and minds of many. Whilst some individuals may have underplayed the importance of the problem, there are others who are guilty of having overstated the issue. For example, during the 1960's and 1970's it was suggested by some that the whole reef would be destroyed and that this would lead to increased erosion of the North Queensland coast. It was also stated at that time that the Reef would cease to exist as a consequence of the outbreaks which were then occurring. Clearly, this did not happen.

Given the continuing sensitivity of the crown-of-thorns starfish issue there is a need to learn from past mistakes in order to avoid similar pitfalls in the future. Accordingly, future discussions of the crown-of-thorns problem need to be as objective as possible, relying on facts rather than emotional outbursts and personal opinions. It is this lack of objectivity that has detracted most from the true importance of the problem. Our desire should be to look towards the future and establish realistic goals that will at some stage give man the ability to make rational and enlightened decisions concerning outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish.

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