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Crown-of-Thorns Seastar

Acanthaster planci

Photo by Mel11
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

The crown-of-thorns seastar, Acanthaster planci, is a large starfish that preys upon hard, or stony, coral polyps. The crown-of-thorns starfish receives its name from venomous thorn-like spines that cover its upper surface, resembling the biblical crown of thorns. It is one of the largest starfish in the world.

Habitat:

Coral reef in the Maldives. A large shallow lagoon surrounding a small island.

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Photographed
PublishedApril 6, 2020

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