Management of crown-of-thorns sea star (Acanthaster planci L.) outbreaks: Removal success depends on reef topography and timing within the reproduction cycle

► An outbreak of A. planci was successfully removed from an isolated coral reef. ► Sea stars were found at depths ≤18 m, excluding recolonization from adjacent reefs. ► A. planci reproduced in April-May 2010 and March-April 2011 based on gonad analyses. ► Recommendations for management of crown-of-thorns outbreaks are provided.