Hairy Starfish or Hairy Sea Star

[bug catcher]

My buddy and I were diving off of Venice Fl. and he found this sea star (hairy & brown). When he touched it the star contracted its legs quickly underneath itself forming a look alike sea urchen sort of. I never saw a sea star move that fast and I couldn't find a picture or description when I searched on Bing. If anyone knows about this animal or can tell me where to look for information I would appreciate the help. Thanks, bug catcher

 

[Scuba_Noob]

Try posting on the same thread on Name that Critter . I think there are many marine wildlife experts in Florida diving who are lurking there.

 

[MauiScubaSteve]

For the most part, fish swim. Sea Star is a much more appropriate name than Starfish.

 

[bug catcher]

I saw it off of Venice Fl. When my buddy touched it it quickly retracterd its legs underneath itself. I googled but couldn't find any info. or picture. If anyone can direct me to a site with info I would appreciate it. Thanks

 

[bug catcher]

Thanks, I posted there so hopefuly I get an answer.

 

[DazedAndConfuzed]

brittle star?

 

[mjh]

Several species of sea-stars have this behavior, do you know how many "legs" it had. Also volunteer at the local Aquarium and all the biologist hate it when we say starfish. Sea-star is the correct name.

 

[Tigerman]

Kinda like this thing? http://www.starfish.ch/Fotos/echino...erstars-Federsterne/Pontiometra-andersoni.jpg

If so its a feathered star..

 

[blackvans1234]

Watch out, people will throw you under the bus for admitting you've touched the sealife. After you're under the bus they'll kick you, then drag your body and rake you over the coals


No lie, its happened to me a few times

 

[Tigerman]

No, actually, first well back the bus up over him again a couple of times and raking people over the corals weve stopped doing because it damages the corals with the spills from said bus. We just use you to poke the great white with these days..