Cushion Star
(Pteraster tesselatus)

image of a Cushion Star

Image ID: 43-01

Comments : Another of the many colorful sea stars found in Puget Sound. In fact, northwest waters boasts the largest, fastest, and most varieties of sea stars found anywhere in the world. Cushion Stars are sometimes also called Slime Stars. When threatened, these stars are capable of excreting a thick mucus that apparently tastes very bad. The stars have a very thick but soft body, helping them earn their name.
Common name : Cushion Star
Scientific Name : Pteraster tesselatus
Location Found : Sunrise Beach, South Puget Sound
Actual Size : 12 inches
Camera Used : Sea & Sea MMII EX w/close-up lens, ISO 100 film, 35mm
Natural History :
Natural History : Cushion stars feed primarily on sponges.