Choriaster+ganulatus


 * //Choriaster ganulatus// **  (Cushion Seastar)

**General Overview:** The Cushion Seastar (//Choriaster granulatus//) is a large, pink sea star with short, thick arms. Its diameter can measure up to 27cm. It feeds on algae, mollusks, worms, detritus, and dead animals by using its mouths to absorb them underneath - usually forcing digestive systems out from their stomach.

Cushion seastar reproduces sexually through mass spawning, the release of many eggs at once. Fertilization occurs externally, and larvae first swim, become sessile, and can move freely around as an adult. Cushion seastar can also reproduce asexually when a part of its body is broken off, through regeneration.
 * Reproduction: **

**Habitat:** Cushion seastars may be found singly or in groups in coral reefs and sandy floors with rubbles. This is usually shallow water with depths of no more than 40 meters. It is generally found in Indo-Pacific region and northern tropical waters of Australia. More specifically, they are spotted along the Great Barrier Reef near Queensland and at times in the waters of the Red Sea, Vanuatu, and Fiji.

Close Up of Pink Cushion Star
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