DSC_3321 Cushion sea star (Patiriella regularis) underside showing stomach extended. Found from mid tide to 30 m deep. Colour variable. Otago Peninsula *
DSC_3954 Ambush sea star (Stegnaster inflatus) dorsal view. Captures prey in an unsual way. It stands on the ends of the arms, arching the "body" away from the rocks. When a suitable prey item crawls into the "cave" it has formed, the sea star drops onto it. Takapuna Beach
DSC_4269 Ambush sea star (Stegnaster inflatus) dorsal view. Captures prey in an unsual way. It stands on the ends of the arms, arching the "body" away from the rocks. When a suitable prey item crawls into the "cave" it has formed, the sea star drops onto it. Army Bay, Whangaparaoa Peninsula *