February 24, 2021: Brisingid Sea Star
Image courtesy of NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Hohonu Moana 2016. Download larger version (jpg, 1.4 MB).
A brisingid sea star seen during a 2016 Hohonu Moana: Exploring Deep Waters off Hawaiʻi expedition dive on an unnamed seamount within Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. Brisingids practice an interesting combination of filter feeding and predation. The spines visible on the arms of the sea star in this image are covered in tiny claws which act like "starfish velcro." When the arms are passively extended into the water as shown here, the sea stars capture and snag small crustaceans and other food. As they get caught, prey animals are unable to escape. Food is then moved via the sea star’s tube feet down to its mouth. Learn more about unusual characteristics of sea stars in this mission log.