Pentaceraster sibogae

Pentaceraster sibogae is a species of starfish belonging to the family Oreasteridae. This species, like other members of its family, is characterized by its robust and thick arms, often displaying a striking color pattern. Pentaceraster sibogae is found in a variety of marine habitats across the Indo-Pacific region.

Description & Characteristics

Pentaceraster sibogae is a relatively large starfish, with a maximum size of around 20 cm in diameter. Its body is typically flat and disc-shaped, with five arms that are relatively short and thick. The surface of the starfish is covered in small, granular spines that give it a rough texture. The color of Pentaceraster sibogae can vary depending on its location and age, but it is often a pale yellow or brown, with darker spots or blotches.

Habitat and Occurrence

Pentaceraster sibogae is found in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. It is a common species in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Philippines and Australia. This starfish is particularly prevalent in the Indo-Malayan biogeographic region, a hotspot of marine biodiversity. Pentaceraster sibogae is found in a variety of depths, from the intertidal zone to depths of over 100 meters, encompassing both the neritic zone and the oceanic zone, demonstrating its adaptability to diverse marine environments.

Taxonomy

Pentaceraster sibogae is classified within the Class Asteroidea, the class of starfish, and belongs to the Order Valvatida, a diverse order of starfish characterized by their well-developed ambulacral grooves. It is further classified within the family Oreasteridae, a family known for its robust and thick-armed starfish often found in shallow tropical waters.

Feeding

Pentaceraster sibogae is an opportunistic carnivore, feeding on a variety of invertebrates, including sponges, corals, mollusks, and other starfish. It uses its strong arms and tube feet to pry open prey and ingest them. Pentaceraster sibogae is also known to scavenge on dead animals.