5 arms, a central disk makes up over ⅓ of its size. Rough textured, can be red, purple, brown, or orange. Size can change based on where they are: averaging 5.9 inches in California and 9.8 inches in Washington. Body color might change based on region. Mouth located at the center of its underside
Habitat
Rocky intertidal zones
Diet
Mussels, clams, barnacles
Life History
Free floating larvae. Adults are ready to mate at 5 years old. Growth is based on nutrition rather than age.
If a detached arm includes part of the central disc, then the arm can regrow into a new star
Because they rely on their tubefeet (which fill with water to expand and contract) for movement, sea stars can only move if they are in water.
Citations & Other Resources
Hiebert, T. C., B. A., Butler, A. L., Shanks. 2016.Oregon Estuarine Invertebrates: Rudys’ Illustrated Guide to Common Species, 3rd Edition. University of Oregon Libraries and Oregon Institute of Marine Biology.
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