Purple Cushion Star [Pteraster pulvillus]
Description
The Purple Cushion Star is a species that inhabits the deep-sea regions of the Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Japan and Russia. They dwell at depths of 150 to 1300 meters. This species has a round, cushion-like body with five short arms. It is covered in a thick, gelatinous, purple skin. They are typically omnivorous, consuming both plant matter and small sea creatures.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Echinoderms
Echinodermata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Stars
Asteroidea
|
| Order |
Velatid Sea Urchins
Velatida
|
| Family |
Pterasterid
Pterasteridae
|
| Genus |
Slime Stars
Pteraster
|
Have a photo of Purple Cushion Star?
Share your underwater photos with the diving community
Upload Photos