Horned Sea Star
Protoreaster nodosus
- Group: Starfish
- Typical depth: 0–37 m
- Max size: 30 cm
- For divers: safe
The horned sea star carries blunt conical knobs along its back and grazes seagrass beds and reef flats. It feeds by spreading films of microbes and microalgae over its stomach outside the body, and serves as a useful gauge of reef health.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Echinodermata › Asteroidea › Valvatida › Oreasteridae › Protoreaster
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 213285.
FAQ
- How deep does the Horned Sea Star live?
- The Horned Sea Star (Protoreaster nodosus) is typically found at 0–37 m.
- Is the Horned Sea Star dangerous to divers?
- The Horned Sea Star is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Horned Sea Star get?
- The Horned Sea Star grows to about 30 cm.