Velcro Star

The velcro star is a large starfish, growing to a maximum diameter of 100 cm (39 in), but is usually considerably smaller. The central disc is small and the five (occasionally six) arms are long and tapering. Rows of large spines run down the arms, each one surrounded by a ring of 30-40 pedicellariae, tiny pincer-like structures. Between the spines are tufts of pale gills. This starfish gets its common name because the surface seems sticky to the touch. The stickiness is caused by the pedicellariae gripping the skin, and any attempt to push it off results in further pedicellariae becoming aroused. The colour of the velcro star is some shade of grey or black, or occasionally beige.

The velcro star occurs on the Pacific coast of North America, from Kodiak Island, Alaska, to Southern California. It is found at depths to about 530 m (1,740 ft). It is generally uncommon and mostly occurs in deep water at the head of fiords.