Crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci). Close-up of the surface of a crown-of-thorns starfish, showing it's spines. This starfish grows up to 4

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Crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci). Close-up of the surface of a crown-of-thorns starfish, showing it's spines. This starfish grows up to 40 centimetres in diameter and has 12-19 arms. The spines can cause pain, swelling, nausea and vomiting if touched by humans. It is a coral reef predator (corallivore) that preys on coral polyps by extending its stomach over them and releasing digestive enzymes. This liquefies the coral's tissue, which the starfish then absorbs. Photographed in the Andaman Sea, Thailand.

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Size: 5180px × 3440px
Photo credit: © GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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