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Crown-of-thorns Starfish (Acanthaster planci)
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Description: The crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) is a large nocturnal sea star that preys upon coral polyps. It is endemic to tropical coral reefs in the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean & the Pacific Ocean. As solitary animals, they feed alone & maintain a distance between themselves & other members of their species.The crown-of-thorns is the second largest sea star in the world. Only the sunflower starfish is larger. The crown-of-thorns starfish normally range in size from 25 to 35 cm. The sharp spines on the sides of the starfish''s limbs resemble thorns & create a crown-like shape, giving the creature its name. The thorns are very sharp & are capable of piercing through standard wetsuits & other clothing. They are also venomous. When the crown-of-thorns feed, they release a chemical which is known to attract more starfish to the area. They have very vibrant colours. The crown-of-thorns produces a neurotoxin which can be released through its spines. Not only are the wounds themselves serious, but the neurotoxin can cause a sharp stinging pain that can last for hours, as well as nausea & vomiting. Frequently, the area around the wound turns a dark blue & begins to swell (edema), which may persist for weeks. The spines themselves may break off & become embedded inside the skin. This can lead to infection & increased toxicity. The crown-of-thorns is a corallivore, a carnivorous predator that preys on reef coral polyps. It climbs onto a reef structure & then extrudes its stomach onto the coral. This releases digestive enzymes that allow the starfish to absorb nutrients from the liquefied coral tissue. The crown-of-thorns also preys on brittle stars in a similar fashion. They are voracious predators. An individual starfish can consume up to 6 square metres (65 sq ft) of living coral reef per year. During times of food shortage the crown-of-thorns can survive on energy reserves for over 6 months.
Uploaded By: femcat38
Date: 1/16/2012
Views: 366
File Size: 61 KB
