Pentaceraster gracilis is a species of starfish belonging to the family Oreasteridae. It is a common and widespread species, inhabiting a variety of marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
Pentaceraster gracilis, also known as the “slender five-rayed starfish,” is a relatively small starfish with a maximum diameter of approximately 10 cm. Its body is characterized by five distinct arms radiating from a central disc. The dorsal surface is typically covered in small, granular spines, while the ventral surface features numerous tube feet used for locomotion and feeding. The coloration of Pentaceraster gracilis can vary, with individuals exhibiting shades of brown, grey, or reddish-brown.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pentaceraster gracilis is found throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean. This starfish thrives in shallow, coastal waters, typically inhabiting rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, and seagrass meadows. The depth range for Pentaceraster gracilis is generally between 1 and 50 meters, though it can occasionally be found at depths up to 100 meters. This makes it a resident of the Neritic Zone, an area of the ocean that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Pentaceraster gracilis belongs to the Class Asteroidea, the class of starfish, and the Order Valvatida, a group of starfish characterized by their five-rayed symmetry and distinct arms. Within this Order, Pentaceraster gracilis is further classified within the Family Oreasteridae, a diverse family of starfish known for their robust, often spiny bodies.
Feeding
Pentaceraster gracilis is a carnivorous predator that primarily feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including mollusks, crustaceans, and other smaller starfish. It uses its tube feet to capture and manipulate prey, often employing its strong jaws to crush and consume its food.
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