Dermasterias imbricata
21cm
0-91m
176 sites
Asteropseidae
Imagine gliding along the ocean floor, and spotting something that looks like a sun-kissed, leathery cushion nestled amongst the rocks. That's likely a Leather Star (Dermasterias imbricata)! These captivating creatures are named for their smooth, almost rubbery texture and can grow up to 30cm across. While not as flashy as some of their starfish cousins, their subtle beauty and intriguing habits make them a rewarding find. Leather Stars are typically found in shallow waters, from the intertidal zone down to around 90 meters, so keep an eye out when exploring rocky reefs and kelp forests. Although they may not be a common sight at specific dive sites (currently recorded at 0!), the thrill of discovering one on your own makes the encounter even more special. Leather Stars are carnivores, so you might catch them slowly gliding across the seabed in search of a meal. Their diet consists of various benthic invertebrates, making them an important part of the ecosystem.
Leather Stars are typically reddish-orange to brownish-orange, sometimes with mottled patterns. Their most distinctive feature is their smooth, leathery texture, unlike the bumpy or spiny surfaces of many other starfish. They usually have five arms, though variations can occur. They have a distinctive odor, sometimes described as garlic or curry-like, though you won't be able to smell it underwater! Look for their slow, deliberate movements across the seafloor.
1070 sites
