While this might save asterina phylactica in the short term it might become more vulnerable in the future because of the genetic effects of inter-breeding.

BBC: News | UK | West Wales recovering from 'environmental disaster'

In scientific terms, probably the most significant effect of the Sea Empress spill has been felt by a tiny creature known as the brooding cushion-star, or Asterina phylactica to those in the know.

BBC: News | UK | West Wales recovering from 'environmental disaster'