Error message
Unable to fetch location details at this time.
Crown-of-Thorns starfish
Acanthaster planci
13.803, 120.912
Field Notes
Description:
The crown-of-thorns is the second largest sea star in the world and is a corallivore, a carnivorous predator that preys on reef coral polyps. Outbreaks of crown-of-thorns has been blamed for widespread reef destruction.
Notes:
Spotted during a night dive at Dive and Trek house reef. Thankfully did not spot others so there would seem to be no indication of an outbreak. Bonus find was a commensal shrimp Periclimenes soror hiding among the starfish's thorns (picture 3).
Reference Links:
Crown-of-thorns starfish
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedFebruary 12, 2012
Comments (2)