Quick Take
- Cushion starfish is a catch-all term for a variety of starfish species.
- They are distinctive for their rounded bodies and short arms.
- The round shape is built on a calcium-rich structure that defends them from predators.
With a large variety of starfish in the ocean, there are many unique appearances that can be surprising. One example is the cushion starfish. These marine animals are famous for their inflated bodies that can sometimes result in funny shapes. This Instagram post by @lovinganimals.dg shows some pictures of cushion starfish with humorously large-looking “butts”. Read here to learn more about cushion starfish.
Cushion starfish come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but share the same round back.
©Guy Bryant/Shutterstock.com
About Cushion Starfish
Cushion starfish are a type of starfish that are known for their inflated and swollen appearance. They still have the common features of a starfish, like five arms, but their bodies are rounder, and their arms are shorter. Cushion starfish is an umbrella term that refers to multiple different species that share the aforementioned traits. Some species include the pillow cushion star, the spiny cushion star, and the small cushion star.
The round shape doesn’t only represent an aesthetic difference from other starfish; it’s an adaptation for their survival. The inflated and heavier body is supported by a calcium-rich structure, which makes it difficult for predators to bite or grab them. Their underside structure is virtually the same as that of other starfish. They share the same tube feet that they use for movement and feeding. These marine animals eat algae, invertebrates, and other debris, making them scavengers and essential to the ecosystem.
Habitats
Cushion starfish inhabit a number of different ocean ecosystems, including coral reefs, rocky seafloors, and shallow waters. Japan, Australia, and other Pacific islands are some of the common places where they are found within the regions’ coral reefs.
The specific curves of the starfish in the Instagram post are reminiscent of certain celebrities’ backsides, reminding us how funny nature can be.
