Crown-of-thorns Starfishオニヒトデ

Species Data

Classification

Valvatida / Acanthasteridae Source

Size

A large starfish with a radius (from the center of the body to the tip of an arm) of about 15–30 cm

Lifespan

Lifespan about 6–8 years

Diet

Carnivore Adults prey on coral polyps; larvae feed on phytoplankton, and newly settled juveniles grow by eating coralline algae and detritus

Distribution

Inhabits coral reefs, found mainly across Japan's Nansei Islands; larvae carried by the Kuroshio Current occasionally reach as far as Honshu, including Wakayama, Mie, Aichi, and Tokyo prefectures. Source

Sources

ja.wikipedia.org

Did You Know?

• Its spines contain potent toxins, mainly plancitoxin I and II, and stings can cause severe pain and anaphylactic shock; fatalities have been reported. Source
• Because it preferentially eats fast-growing coral species, at moderate population levels it is thought to help maintain coral reef diversity. Source

Verified individual animals and facilities will be added as official information becomes available.

FAQ

Is the crown-of-thorns starfish dangerous to humans?

Yes. Its spines carry potent toxins that can cause severe pain and, in rare cases, life-threatening anaphylactic shock if a person is stung. Source

Why is the crown-of-thorns starfish a problem for coral reefs?

It feeds on coral polyps, and periodic population outbreaks can strip large areas of reef bare, though at normal, lower densities it preferentially eats fast-growing corals and may help sustain reef diversity. Source

How long does a crown-of-thorns starfish live?

Its lifespan is estimated at around 6-8 years. Source

How many operating facilities are registered here?

Operating facilities registered on this site: Japan 0 Source

Books & gear

• Crown-of-thorns Starfish book
• binoculars