Crown of Thorns Star (Acanthaster planci) オニヒトデ – size 55cm
The Crown of Thorns Star is not well liked. They eat coral and have been known to devastate whole reefs. They are also covered with sharp spines covered with venom. They do have a natural predator called a Triton’s Trumpet. Unfortunately, the Triton’s Trumpet shell is very large and beautiful. They seem to disappear from the reefs and show up in gift shops. Save the reefs and some money don’t buy them. Kauai 2005
It is best to not touch the Crown of Thorns Star. The spines are sharp and covered with venom. Kauai 2012
The tube feet of the Crown of Thorns Star. Kauai 2003