Spotlight on Sea Stars

One of the most recognizable aquatic animals is the sea star also known as the starfish. These invertebrates are found all over the world wherever salt water can be found. There are over 1,500 different species of sea stars and they can be found along all different levels of the seafloor from the seashore to great depths. 

When we think of a sea star, we often think of a palm sized creature that has 5 arms that grow out. However, sea stars can be as small as an inch wide and some species have been found to have over 40 arms! Their bright colors make them easy to spot but do not remove a sea star from its habitat. Any bacteria that is on your hand could cause damage because sea stars are actually more fragile than they appear. Although the can regrow arms as long as ⅕ of their bodies are intact, it is still a slow process taking up to a few months or even years. 

Where sea stars choose to reside is often based on what meals are available. They are actually carnivorous animals and eat mollusks like clams or mussels. They use the suction cups that are on their arms to open up the shell and then eat whatever is inside. Their suction cups are also how they move around gripping the surface as they go. The Sunflower Sea Star found in the Pacific Northwest can move up to 3.3 feet a minute! 

As for the predators of the sea star, there are actually quite a few. Birds will swoop down during a low tide and grab one but there are more ocean animals that also prey on them. Otters, sea turtles, crabs are just a few of the natural predators of the sea star. However, sea stars have high reproductive rates meaning that when looking at them as a whole, they are not an endangered species. 

When you come with us on one of our Maui scuba tours, keep your eyes peeled for one of these amazing creatures. If you want a bigger challenge, try spotting a sea star during one of our Maui night dives, just remember to always keep your hands to yourself.