Crown-of-Thorns Seastar

Description:

The crown-of-thorns seastar, Acanthaster planci, is a large starfish that preys upon hard, or stony, coral polyps. The crown-of-thorns starfish receives its name from venomous thorn-like spines that cover its upper surface, resembling the biblical crown of thorns. It is one of the largest starfish in the world.

Habitat:

Coral reef in the Maldives. A large shallow lagoon surrounding a small island.