Choriaster granulatus

(Lütken, 1869)

Vernacular names
English : Granulated cushion star
French : Etoile-coussin granuleuse

Classification
Class : Asteroidea
Order : Valvatida
Family : Oreasteridae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Large sea star reaching a diameter of 30 cm. Five relatively short but very thick cylindrical arms. Presence of clusters of papillae giving a marbled aspect. Coloration white with orange to pink-red clusters. Tip of arms are completely white.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in the Indo-Pacific area from Red Sea and east Africa to south Japan, north Australia, Fiji and New Caledonia. Lives in coral reefs in lagoons and reef slopes, in rubble areas, down to 40 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species’ status has yet to be assessed. It appears to be quite common and not affected by decline of coral reefs. Occasionally caught for trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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