Labidiaster
Labidiaster is a genus of starfish in the family Asteriidae. They are commonly referred to as “sunstars” due to their distinctive radial symmetry and bright coloration. These starfish are characterized by their large number of arms (usually 10-15), which are often arranged in a spiral pattern.
Characteristics
Members of the Labidiaster genus possess several notable characteristics:
- Radial symmetry: Their body structure is arranged around a central point, with arms radiating outward.
- Numerous arms: They typically have between 10 and 15 arms, sometimes reaching up to 20.
- Spiral arm arrangement: The arms often exhibit a spiral pattern, creating a unique visual effect.
- Bright coloration: Labidiaster species display vibrant colors, including shades of orange, red, and purple.
- Small size: Most Labidiaster species are relatively small, with arm spans typically ranging from 5 to 15 centimeters.
Environments
Labidiaster starfish are found in various marine environments, particularly in cold, deep waters of the Southern Hemisphere. Their preferred habitat includes the following:
- Subantarctic waters: These starfish are abundant in the waters surrounding Antarctica and the subantarctic islands.
- Deep-sea ecosystems: Labidiaster species can be found in depths ranging from a few hundred meters to over 1000 meters.
- Rocky substrates: They often inhabit areas with rocky bottoms, where they can find crevices and shelter.
References
To learn more about the Labidiaster genus, consult these reliable sources: