Mediterranean Red Sea Star

Overview

The Mediterranean Red Sea Star is a vibrant and easily recognizable echinoderm, widely considered one of the most common starfish species in the Mediterranean Sea. It is typically found in the eastern Atlantic and throughout the Mediterranean, where it inhabits a variety of environments from the shallows to deeper waters.

Appearance

This species is characterized by its bright orange-red coloration and a surface texture that often appears soapy or slightly rough. It usually features five relatively slender, cylindrical arms radiating from a small central disc, though individuals with six or seven arms are occasionally observed. The upper surface is covered with irregularly arranged small pits or protuberances, from which the animal can extend its gills. On the underside, each arm features an ambulacral groove lined with tube feet that end in small suckers, which the starfish uses for movement and sensory perception.

Distribution & habitat

While most abundant in the Mediterranean, its range extends through the eastern Atlantic, from the English Channel down to the Cape Verde Islands. It is highly adaptable, thriving on diverse substrates including rocky seabeds, sandy or muddy bottoms, and within Posidonia seagrass meadows.

Biology & behavior

Unlike many predatory starfish, this species is primarily a scavenger and detritivore. It feeds on organic particles and microscopic organisms found on the seafloor, often using ciliated grooves on its arms to transport food toward its mouth. The species possesses a thick skin containing glands that secrete a protective mucus, which helps defend against parasites and infections. It is generally solitary and diurnal, and like other sea stars, it has the ability to regenerate lost or damaged limbs.