The hardy reef star, or pātangaroa, seen here on the exposed west coast of the South Island of New Zealand, near Punakaiki.

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One of the hardiest starfish is the reef star, or pātangaroa, which flourishes on the exposed west coasts of both main islands. They are predators of mussels and use the suction feet underneath their arms to pry the mussel shells open. They can reach a span of 35 of Motukiekie Beach, near Punakaiki, west coast of South Island, New Zealand, Pacific

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Size: 4552px × 2561px
Location: Punakaiki, South Island, New Zealand
Photo credit: © Cheryl Ramalho / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

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