The Sea Star, Starfish, Many Pored Star – Fromia polypora is a captivating marine invertebrate known for its striking appearance and intriguing biology.
Description & Characteristics
The Fromia polypora is a relatively small starfish, usually reaching a maximum size of around 5 cm in diameter. Its body is characterized by five arms, each with a distinct pointed tip. The upper surface of the starfish, known as the aboral surface, is covered in small, numerous pores, giving rise to its common name “Many Pored Star”. This intricate network of pores is crucial for the starfish’s respiratory and excretory functions. The color of the Fromia polypora is variable, ranging from pale yellow to orange, often with a darker brown or reddish hue.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Fromia polypora is a common inhabitant of tropical coral reefs and rocky shores, found in both shallow and deeper waters. It is widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Pacific Ocean. These starfish are typically found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone to around 30 meters, primarily within the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Fromia polypora belongs to the Class: Asteroidea, Order: Valvatida, and Family: Goniasteridae. This classification places it within a diverse group of starfish known for their wide range of shapes, sizes, and adaptations.
Feeding
The Fromia polypora is an opportunistic feeder, consuming a varied diet that includes bacteria (bacterioplankton), clam meat, and detritus. It uses its tube feet to capture food particles and transport them to its mouth, located in the center of its underside. This adaptable feeding strategy allows it to thrive in a variety of environments.
Image References