Starfish

thingiverse

Human beings find fascination in the intricate echinoderms of the sea that possess the distinct characteristic of being star-shaped, categorically belonging to a group called Asteroidea. Misconceptions commonly arise as individuals also apply these names to ophiuroids, but it's crucial to acknowledge that these are indeed brittle stars or more formally referred to as "basket stars". It is documented that approximately 1,500 different species of starfish can be discovered in all the world's oceans, ranging from tropical areas to the coldest frigid polar regions. Their habitats cover the full spectrum from the zone just below sea level down to incredible depths of about 6,000 m (20,000 ft), where very little light exists. Starfish are indeed marine invertebrates known for their ability to thrive in various environments with some unique characteristics that set them apart. Typically, they consist of a central disc surrounded by five distinctive arms though it is worth mentioning that there exist many species with more numerous limbs. Their top surfaces can be described as either smooth, coarse or even covered in tiny spikes and plates. A majority of starfish exhibit bright vibrant colours, ranging from an assortment of red shades to stunning orange tones, some being known for displaying dazzling shades of blue, grey or brown hues on their upper sides. They utilize an intricate system comprising tube feet which allow them to move with precision due to hydraulic pressure in addition to having a mouth located at the lower section. These intriguing creatures operate by opportunistic predation feeding almost exclusively upon marine life residing near sea level or just beneath its surface including crustaceans, snails and worms. A significant portion have devised extraordinary tactics of devouring food sources through extending their stomachs out into the water or suspending themselves from above the substrate. Due to these impressive complex cycles that involve multiple methods of reproduction both via sperm fertilization of egg cells followed by giving birth but some instances including separation without male gamete fusion - and regenerative ability as most starfish can restore body parts whether those damaged partially lost. Furthermore they demonstrate adaptability and self preservation with the technique called autotomy in losing limbs or parts in an act aimed at deceiving or escaping a predator. Within their ecosystems they play diverse critical roles which significantly influence surrounding species as examples would include coral reef's keystone species found within waters in Australia - and New Zealand - that feed exclusively on mussels or sea stars while being part of these groups is exemplified. There have been some cases such as tropical crown of thorns Acanthaster planci that threatens large populations by destroying reefs throughout entire regions. Evidence found through study indicates existence dating far into earths past, roughly back in ordovician - era over a period about 450 million years prior and still now continues until recent findings which confirm some remainders are incredibly durable. Due to this durability though other fragments disintegrate at once which results from decomposition occurring immediately after demise; because as well very small pieces are left such remains hard enough so location isn't very possible - despite such evidence - an overwhelming impact within people can be noticed as they see a certain level beauty within patterns symmetry displayed while drawing eyes to this star-shaped species that exist throughout waters that surround our continents and inspire countless literature illustrations symbols - and legends told stories for both historical records present and long gone days - the human has indeed been drawn deeply to those who inhabit them including even sometimes consumption being seen despite acknowledged possible harm.