The Common Sunstar or Crossaster papposus is a very attractive animal with beautifully patterned markings. It has a fairly large, thick central disc and relatively short arms which usually number ten to twelve. Maybe up to 30cms diameter. Seems to prefer areas of high water movement where it will eat just about anything including other starfish. It is also cannibalistic. Very small ones are sometimes found in rock pools.
In the illustration, a Common Sunstar is seen crossing a bed of Plumose Anemones which have retracted as the tide was not running.

The Common Sunstar or Crossaster papposus is a very attractive animal with beautifully patterned markings. It has a fairly large, thick central disc and relatively short arms which usually number ten to twelve. Maybe up to 30cms diameter. Seems to prefer areas of high water movement where it will eat just about anything including other starfish. It is also cannibalistic. Very small ones are sometimes found in rock pools.
In the illustration, a Common Sunstar is seen crossing a bed of Plumose Anemones which have retracted as the tide was not running.