White Sea Star

Overview

The White Sea Star is a distinctive echinoderm known for its irregular appearance and variable number of arms. It is commonly found in shallow coastal waters across the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean, often inhabiting rocky substrates and seagrass meadows.

Appearance

This species typically possesses between 6 and 10 arms, though the count can vary, and these arms are often of unequal length due to its unique regenerative capabilities. The central disc is relatively small, and the dorsal surface is covered in fine, scattered spines surrounded by small, pom-pom-like clusters of pedicellariae. Its coloration is highly variable, ranging from creamy white to brown, often featuring mottled patterns of red, blue, or yellow.

Distribution & habitat

It is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean and the northeastern Atlantic, including areas such as the Azores, the Canary Islands, and the coast of Brazil. It prefers rocky environments, often hiding under stones or within seaweed and seagrass beds, and is typically found from the surface down to depths of approximately 50 meters.

Biology & behavior

This sea star is known for its ability to reproduce asexually through fission, a process where it splits and then regenerates missing parts, which contributes to the irregular size and arrangement of its arms. It is primarily nocturnal and utilizes its pedicellariae for both defense and respiration. While it is a generalist predator, it is not considered suitable for aquarium environments.