Florida’s marine environments host various starfish species. These invertebrates, technically known as sea stars, are not fish but belong to the echinoderm family, which also includes sea urchins and sand dollars. Florida’s warm coastal waters provide suitable habitats for these unique animals, making it a prime location for observation.
Common Starfish Species in Florida
Florida’s waters host several distinct starfish species, each with unique characteristics. The Cushion Sea Star (Oreaster reticulatus) can grow up to 20 inches, making it the largest sea star in the region. Adults display shades of red, orange, yellow, or brown, while juveniles are often green and blend into seagrass beds where they reside. This omnivorous species consumes sponges and plays a role in its ecosystem.
The Nine-Armed Sea Star (Luidia senegalensis) is a common inhabitant, notable for having up to nine slender, tapering arms and a muted gray or sandy coloration. This nocturnal species often buries itself in sandy or muddy bottoms, particularly in sheltered lagoons. The Conical Spined Sea Star (Echinaster sentus), also called the Florida Common Sea Star, features cone-shaped spines arranged in rows along its arms, presenting colors from red to orangish-brown with violet valleys. It thrives in shallow waters, including seagrass beds and sandy or rubble-bottomed areas.
The Royal Sea Star (Astropecten articulatus) stands out with striking purple and orange patterns. These medium-sized starfish, reaching about six inches across, prefer sandy and seagrass habitats, as well as coral reefs, typically at depths between 33 and 66 feet. The Common Comet Star (Linckia guildingi) usually possesses five long, cylindrical arms, though individuals with four or six arms are not uncommon. Its coloration is highly variable, ranging from green to blue, violet, or red, and it can grow up to 16 inches, often found on hard, flat-bottom coral reefs and sandy areas.
Finding Starfish in Florida’s Waters
Starfish can be observed across various marine environments in Florida, from shallow coastal areas to deeper coral reefs. Many species prefer sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, and rocky shores, where they find food and shelter. Tide pools exposed during low tide also offer opportunities to spot these creatures, as they may be temporarily trapped until the water returns.
The Gulf Coast, including Pensacola Beach and Southwest Florida, is known for its starfish populations, often found between the first and second sandbars or just beneath the sand. The Florida Keys and state parks such as Don Pedro Island State Park and Stump Pass Beach State Park are recognized locations for starfish sightings. For optimal viewing, visit these areas during mid to lower tides, as it increases visibility in shallower waters. Snorkeling or diving offers an immersive way to observe starfish in their natural habitats, allowing for a closer look at their behavior and coloration.
Ethical Encounters and Conservation
Interacting with starfish requires careful consideration for their well-being and marine ecosystem health. Observe starfish without disturbing them, as removing them from water, even briefly, can be harmful. Starfish breathe through specialized structures called papulae, or skin gills, which extract oxygen from water; exposure to air can lead to asphyxiation and stress, potentially causing death within minutes.
Direct contact should be avoided, as oils and bacteria from human skin can be detrimental to their delicate tissues. If handling is unavoidable, such as for expert identification, it should be done gently, keeping the animal fully submerged.
Starfish play a significant role in marine environments, often functioning as predators that control populations of other invertebrates like mussels and sea urchins, contributing to ecosystem balance. Florida has regulations to protect marine life, including starfish. The collection of live starfish is prohibited in many areas, with the Bahama Starfish (Oreaster reticulatus) specifically protected and illegal to harvest statewide. Certain counties, like Lee County and Sanibel, have broader bans on collecting any live marine organisms. Adhering to these guidelines and practicing responsible observation helps preserve these animals for future generations.