Luidia quinaria, commonly known as the five-rayed sea star, is a fascinating echinoderm species belonging to the family Luidiidae. It is a prominent member of the Class Asteroidea, which encompasses all starfish, and falls within the Order Paxillosida, a group known for their flattened bodies and distinctive spiny covering.
Description & Characteristics
Luidia quinaria is characterized by its five long, slender arms, which give it its common name. Its body is typically flat and disk-shaped, with a diameter ranging from 10 to 20 centimeters. The arms are covered in small, granular ossicles, giving the sea star a rough texture. The color of Luidia quinaria varies depending on its location, ranging from pale brown to reddish-brown or even a deep purple.
Habitat and Occurrence
Luidia quinaria is a common inhabitant of the intertidal and subtidal zones, primarily occurring in sandy or muddy sediments. Its depth range extends from the shallows to depths of around 100 meters. This species is found in a variety of marine zones, including the neritic zone, which encompasses the coastal waters above the continental shelf. Luidia quinaria is particularly prevalent in the North Atlantic Ocean, the eastern Pacific Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a significant presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Luidia quinaria is scientifically classified within the Class Asteroidea, which includes all starfish. It belongs to the Order Paxillosida, a group characterized by their flattened bodies and spiny covering. Luidia quinaria is part of the family Luidiidae, a group of sea stars known for their slender arms and their ability to regenerate lost limbs.
Feeding
Luidia quinaria is a carnivorous sea star that feeds primarily on bivalves, such as clams and mussels. It uses its strong arms to pry open the shells of its prey and then extrudes its stomach into the opening to digest the soft tissues inside. This unique feeding strategy allows Luidia quinaria to access a wide range of food sources within its habitat.
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