Northern Pacific Seastar

Scientific Name: Asterias amurensis

Description: The Northern Pacific Seastar, an introduced marine pest, is a predator of a wide range of species included bivalves and even fish eggs. Its colour varies between purple and yellow and it has five pointed arms with spines in rows along them. This species is not present at the time of writing in Barwon Heads but is known from nearby Port Phillip Bay. If sighted this should be immediately reported to Parks Victoria or to marine.pests@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

Type: Seastars
Where to find: Subtidal Reefs
Size: 30cm