First of all, sea stars (or starfish) are not actually fish! Because they do not have a spine, they belong to a group of species called invertebrates.

Most sea stars have spiny skin and five arms surrounding a disk-shaped central body, although some may have up to 50 arms. Their arms are covered with pincer-like organs and suction cups that allow the animal to slowly crawl along the ocean floor. They also have eye holes at the tips of their arms, which allow the starfish to sense light and dark and help them find food.

In addition to their tough, spiny, armor-like skin, some of them have bright colors that camouflage them among plants and corals or deter would-be attackers. And here’s more – these amazing creatures are able to regrow lost or damaged limbs! If they are attacked, some sea stars even cast off their arm to escape from the predator. Did you know that?