Many-Spotted Seastar

Fromia polypora

Fromia polypora is a species of marine starfish characterized by its many pores and distinctive appearance. It is typically found in the Indo-West Pacific region, particularly around Australia. This starfish inhabits a variety of benthic environments, including coral reefs and rocky substrates, at depths ranging from 3 to 16 metres, although it can be found as deep as 160 metres in some instances. The many-spotted seastar can be recognized by its unique pattern of spots, which helps differentiate it from other similar species in the Goniasteridae family. The many-spotted seastar feeds primarily on small invertebrates, utilizing its tube feet to capture prey. Its feeding habits are typical of many starfish, which are opportunistic feeders in their benthic habitats. Breeding and reproduction details for this species are not extensively documented, but like many echinoderms, it is likely to reproduce through external fertilization, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. Encounters with the many-spotted seastar during dives can be quite common, as it has been recorded at various dive sites. Divers may observe it resting on the substrate, blending in with its surroundings. Its presence adds to the biodiversity of the marine ecosystem, although specific conservation measures for this species have not been evaluated, as it is currently listed as Not Evaluated by the IUCN.