Many-armed Seastar

Allostichaster polyplax

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

Arms typically 8, discrete finger-like, frequently of different lengths. Disc small. Variable colour with shades of grey, brown or red, and black, greenish-grey, cream or white markings.

Can reproduce asexually by splitting and each part growing new arms

Size

Centre to arm tip up to 5 cm

Habitat

Under-surface of rocks, including the lower intertidal zone, to depth of 238 m

Distribution

Southern Australia from WA to NSW including Tasmania

Gallery

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Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (3)

The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The Australian Museum (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
O'Loughlin, P. (2020) Allostichaster polyplax Seastar in Museums Victoria Collections (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Many-armed Seastar
Scientific name: Allostichaster polyplax (Müller & Troschel, 1844)
Family: Asteriidae
Category: Sea Life › Sea Stars
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Also Known As

Four-and-four Sea Star

Information Website

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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.