Pink Sea Star
Overview
Pisaster brevispinus, commonly called the Pink Sea Star, Giant Pink Sea Star, or Short-spined Sea Star, is a Pacific Ocean sea star. It is most commonly known for being the basis of the character Patrick from SpongeBob Squarepants. . The Pink Sea Star is usually found on sand or mud where it feeds on its prey such as clams or sand dollars. Smaller individuals are sometimes seen on rocks or pilings where they prey on mussels, barnacles, and tube worms. This species is also known to scavenge on dead fish and squid. The giant pink sea star does not tolerate being out of water very well, so it is generally found on the beach only during very low tides. It usually lives at a depth of 180 metres (590 ft).
Skeletal System
The Pink Sea Star is a marine invertebrates. They typically have a central disc and five arms, though some species have more than this. The aboral or upper surface may be smooth, granular or spiny, and is covered with overlapping plates. Many species are brightly coloured in various shades of red or orange, while others are blue, grey or brown. Starfish have tube feet operated by a hydraulic system and a mouth at the centre of the oral or lower surface. They are opportunistic feeders and are mostly predators on benthic invertebrates. Several species have specialized feeding behaviours including eversion of their stomachs and suspension feeding. They have complex life cycles and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Most can regenerate damaged parts or lost arms and they can shed arms as a means of defence.