How big is the Attenuated sea star?

Attenuated sea star (Hacelia attenuata) reaches 10–20 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Attenuated sea star?

Attenuated sea star is found between 10–150 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Attenuated sea star?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Attenuated sea star?

Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Attenuated sea star (Hacelia attenuata)

Key facts

Scientific name: Hacelia attenuata
Common name: Attenuated sea star
Category: Echinoderms
Family: Ophidiasteridae
Genus: Hacelia
Size: 10–20 cm
Depth: 10–150 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: rocky, reef
Behaviours: solitary, slow
Ocean zones: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean

Description

Hacelia attenuata reaches 20 cm. Sea star with 5 long, thin tapered arms, red-orange to mustard-yellow, slightly granular surface. Close to Ophidiaster ophidianus but smaller and less glossy. Lives on Mediterranean rocky walls and coralligenous habitats with a preference for shaded zones, between 10 and 150 m. Feeds on sponges and small invertebrates. Accessible to divers on drop-offs.

Photo of Attenuated sea star

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Attenuated sea star?: Attenuated sea star (Hacelia attenuata) reaches 10–20 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Attenuated sea star?: Attenuated sea star is found between 10–150 m deep.
Is the Attenuated sea star dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Attenuated sea star?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Attenuated sea star?: Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Other species in the family Ophidiasteridae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 124094)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2272519)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia