Species · GBIF taxon 2271208
Crown-of-thorns Starfish
Acanthaster planciAlso known as COTS
These massive, multi-armed predators crawl across tropical reefs, everting their stomachs to digest living coral tissue directly off the limestone skeleton. Covered in hundreds of sharp, venom-tipped spines, they play a dual role as natural reef sculptors and devastating pests during population explosions. Healthy reefs can support small numbers, but massive outbreaks can strip entire coral communities bare in a matter of weeks.
MarineVenomousReef-Dwelling
- diet
- Hard coral polyps (Scleractinia)
- family
- Acanthasteridae
- threats
- Agricultural runoff, coastal development, and overfishing of natural predators
- life Span
- 15 to 17 years
NE
Spines contain venom that causes severe pain and swelling; do not touch.
The sharp spines are coated with a toxic mucus containing saponins and plancitoxins, which cause intense pain, nausea, and potential secondary infections if they puncture the skin.
Never touch or step on this starfish; if punctured, seek immediate medical attention and submerge the wound in hot water to help denature the venom.- Keep your distance: Maintain at least two meters of clearance while diving to avoid accidental contact with the spines.
- Report outbreaks: Log sightings with local reef management authorities to help track population surges.
- Do not handle: Never attempt to touch, move, or harvest these starfish without professional training and equipment.