Cushion Star
Culcita novaeguineae
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 0–90 m
- Max size: 40 cm
- For divers: safe
A plump, pin cushion shaped sea star, the cushion star looks more like a swollen cushion than a typical five armed star and grows to about 40 centimetres across. It grazes the reef edge and slope in shallow water, feeding on coral polyps and other small encrusting life, often carrying a tiny commensal shrimp on its underside.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Echinodermata › Asteroidea › Valvatida › Oreasteridae › Culcita
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 212298.
FAQ
- How deep does the Cushion Star live?
- The Cushion Star (Culcita novaeguineae) is typically found at 0–90 m.
- Is the Cushion Star dangerous to divers?
- The Cushion Star is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Cushion Star get?
- The Cushion Star grows to about 40 cm.