As the name gives away, this starfish has spines in three rows all the way down each of its five arms. These spines are white, and usually have purple tips. The starfish itself is dirty brown to greyish green in colour, often with purple tips to its arms.

Behaviour

Its main spines are surrounded by specialised mini modified spines, which are used for protection and gathering food.  Like other starfish, they are a voracious predator and eat bivalve molluscs, crustaceans and even other starfish.

Size

This is a large starfish, which grows up to 70 cm diameter! Commonly 25-30 cm.

Status

Common.

Distribution

This starfish is found on the west coast of Scotland. It has only been recorded at one site on the east coast (St Abbs).

When to see

All year around.

Facts

Like lizards losing their tails, when disturbed or stressed, this species will often shed one or more of its legs. They are often spotted with missing legs or 1 or 2 tiny legs that are in the process of regrowing!