DSC_5104 Reef star, or patakaroa (Stichaster australis) large, and commonly found on surf beaten coasts from North Cape to Milford Sound. Occurring from low tide to below the water this star commonly feeds on mussels. Maori Bay, Muriwai *
DSC_ 3364 Spiny sea star (Coscinasterias muricata) these starfish reproduce asexually by 'fission' where the central disc breaks into two pieces and each portion then regenerates the missing parts. Tokerau Beach, Karikari Peninsula *
DSC_ 2846 Spiny sea star (Coscinasterias muricata) reproducing asexually. This form of asexual reproduction takes place by 'fission' where the central disc breaks into two pieces and each portion then regenerates the missing parts. Otago Peninsula *