Red starfish

Biology

The red starfish is very common in the Mediterranean Sea. With a bright orange to red colour, it can reach 20 centimetres in diameter, and usually has five arms (up to seven). The arms are covered with small spines, but it has a soapy texture due to the mucus that it produces. It is found on rocky or sandy surfaces, and among sea grass. It feeds mainly on decomposing organic material and sponges.