Sea star predation is not a unique

Sea star predation is not a unique problem for scallops. It also impacts on
other bivalve species such as oysters and mussels. Over the years, various
methods for sea star removal/control have been developed. Early methods such
as the sea star mop (Faubert), which removes sea stars from the sea bottom by
entangling them in cotton bundles, are still used today. Other methods including
the dredge, sea star traps, fences, brine, lime and manual removal are also
practiced. Methods such as the suction dredge, the plough, heavy metals or
broadcast lime application are no longer used due to their inefficiency or harmful
effect on the environment. Control methods often need to be ongoing because
sea stars will reinvade a cleared area. The potential of long term control
methods, such as biological or genetic control, have been explored but the
safety, practicality and social/political acceptability of these methods is
questionable.