Friday, June 25, 2010

June 25, 2010 : Crown-of-Thorns Starfish


Crown-of-Thorns Starfish

The crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) is a large nocturnal sea star that preys upon coral polyps. The crown-of-thorns receives its name from venomous thorn-like spines that cover its body.

The crown-of-thorns is endemic to tropical coral reefs in the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. As solitary animals, they feed alone and maintain constant distance between themselves and other members of their species.

The crown-of-thorns is the second largest sea star in the world. Only the Giant Sunstar is larger.

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