Description
The Crown Of Thorns Starfish (Ancanthaster Planci), is a species of venomous Starfish that lives in coral reef ecosystems, and found in tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This starfish has a distinctive appearance, with a black and purple body, with venomous black spines that cover its top-side. The Starfish is known for its destructive behaviour on coral reefs, feeding on coral polyps which has an effect on the health of the coral reef.
Habitat
The Crown-Of-Thorns Starfish lives in coral reef ecosystems in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Diet
The Crown Of Thorns Starfish primarily feeds on coral polyps. It covers the coral face with its underside, and releases an enzyme that breaks down the coral for it to consume and digest. Their diet can of course cause destruction to coral reef ecosystems, but equally keep it in balance.
Appearance
The Crown Of Thorns Starfish has a black and violet/purple upper body, with violet running down each arm. The upper body is filled with venomous spines.
Key Features
- Black and Purple Body.
- The Starfish can have up to 19 arms.
- Black spines cover its body.
Threats
IUCN Conservation Status: N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
The Crown-Of-Thorns Starfish lives in coral reef ecosystems in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
The Crown Of Thorns Starfish primarily feeds on coral polyps. It covers the coral face with its underside, and releases an enzyme that breaks down the coral for it to consume and digest. Their diet can of course cause destruction to coral reef ecosystems, but equally keep it in balance.
The venomous Starfish has a number of predators, with the main one being the Titan’s Trumpet, which is a large snail. Other predators include species of Wrasse and Triggerfish.
