Monday, 2 June 2014

Asterias Amurensis (Northern Pacific Sea Star)

Description:

  • Large predator- 40-50 cm in diameter.
  • Symmetrical Shape
  • Colour varies upon location.
  • Endoskeleton

Taxonomy:

  • Animalia
  • Echinodermata
  • Asteroidea
  • Focipulatida
  • Asteriidae
  • Asterias
  • Species: Asterias Amurensis

    • Ecology/ Features:

  • Very few natural predators
  • Native to the coasts of northern China, North Korea, South Korea, Russia and Japan.
  • Prefers water temperature between 7 to 10 degrees Celsius.
  • Australian scientists are working with others in Japan and Russia on a biological control using parasites which infect the sea star- as it reproduces very rapidly.
  • Ability to attach itself to rocks and other sea structures
  • Preference for shellfish as food- a diet which is posing serious threat to shellfish fisheries.
  • Can be found close to shore, mud, sand, or pebble substrates.
  • Can live in depths up to 200 metres.
  • Ability to produce up to 20 million eggs for adult female
  • Can live up to five years.
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    1 comment:

    1. Mr. P3 June 2014 at 10:46

      Hi there. Good quality blog. Check the cockle description as it appears to be misidentified. There are a still a few more organisms that need to be completed.

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