Blue Bat Starfish

Patiria pectinifera

Habitat & Distribution:  At a depth of 40–300 meters in the Pacific Ocean

Diet : Algae, seagrass, detritus, and small invertebrates.

Size: Up to 10cm

Lifespan: Up to 20 Years

Description

The body structure of the Blue Bat Star consists of a central disc surrounded by five short arms. What distinguishes this species is the presence of thick skin membranes (interradial tissue) connecting the spaces between its arms, giving the entire body the appearance of outstretched bat wings. In terms of coloration, the species is striking, featuring a combination of dark blue and purplish-blue hues with contrasting orange patches on its upper surface, while the underside—where the mouth and rows of tube feet (ambulacral feet) are located—is typically paler or yellowish.

Behavior

The Blue Bat Star is known to be highly aggressive toward other sea stars. When two individuals encounter each other or vie for a feeding territory, they engage in a "slow-motion battle," climbing over one another and pushing against each other's arms to drive away the rival.

Reproduction

Blur bat starfish reproduces twice a year—in autumn and spring. The female releases approximately 500,000 eggs annually.

Communication & Perception

They communicate and interact with their environment primarily through chemical signals and physical contact. As echinoderms, they use specialized sensory systems to navigate, forage for food, and locate mates within their habitats.

Predator

Carnivorous starfish (Luidia quinaria), lobsters, and large mollusks.