Cushion Star
Asterina gibbosa
Cushion Stars have a plump, cushiony form with short, rounded arms, often displaying greenish, brownish, or orange hues. They feed on small organisms and films on rock surfaces, and can regenerate lost arms over time. On Lihou, look for them under loose stones or within weedy crevices at low tide, where their subtle colours may help them blend in.
- Habitat: Lower shore and shallow subtidal on rocky coasts; often under rocks, in crevices, or on algae-covered surfaces.
- When to See: Year-round; more likely at very low tides in rockpools
- Length: 2–5 cm