It is when blooms of crown-of-thorns occur that the reef really suffers. On some patches of reef thousands can gather during one of these blooms, moving over the reef and eating any coral polyps within the reach of their extruded stomach.
But it is important to remember that they do occur naturally, and are spotted here in Hawaii from time to time. We do keep a close eye to make sure they are not proliferating in large numbers. Also while viewing and photographing these striking animals it is important to stay clear of their many thorns as contact with your skin will cause an itchy, irritating rash.
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