WILD WONDER: THE KILLER ROCK STAR

The multi-talented sunstar struts its stuff in the shallows around the coast. But not everyone is a super-fan of the diva that dazzles the rockpool

Meet the dazzling diva that struts its stuff around our shores

In a mysterious underwater world, the common sunstar shines brightly. Found in the shallows close to the shore, this spiny-skinned creature has a vibrant orange centre and up to 16 short, stocky ‘arms’ – more limbs than any other of its species. With concentric circles of red, white, yellow and pink, it might look alluring but don’t be deceived: it’s a merciless predator that pursues smaller star- and shellfish before swallowing them whole.

The Crossaster papposus does, however, have a more sociable side, sometimes allowing fellow rockpool residents, such as brittlestars, to hitch a ride on its back for better pickings of plankton. Among other talents, it can regenerate lost limbs, grow to up to 50cm in diameter and cover more than five metres in half a day – making it Britain’s speediest starfish. It is frequently found around the coast: seek it out in intertidal pools, where it sits resplendent beneath the seaweed. Find out more at wildlifetrusts.org.