Gunn's Six-armed Star

Meridiastra gunnii

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

A six-armed species with uniform dark purplish crimson or reddish-brown or indigo blue, paler on the oral surface tube feet are orange. This seastar can be extremely abundant on the edge of sheltered reefs or seagrass beds, where animals lift their arms into the water column and attempt to trap drifting plant or animal material.f

Size

Grows to a maximum size of around 14cm

Habitat

Under-surface of rocks, in the lower intertidal zone, to depth of 36 m

Distribution

Southern Australian coasts

Gallery

Select any photo or video to view it large with its details and credits.

Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (1)

The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Gunn's Six-armed Star
Scientific name: Meridiastra gunnii (Gray, 1840)
Family: Asterinidae
Category: Sea Life › Sea Stars
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Information Website

Seen one? Snapped one?

Sightings and photos help keep this record growing.

Tell Us About It

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.