Creature Feature: Slowpoke sea star causes speedy reactions

It may be a slowpoke among sea stars, but the leather star has its own unique traits -- namely smelling like garlic and the amazing response it elicits from various sea anemones -- making it a fascinating marine creature.

Read more about the leather star in the Creature Feature file below.

(Note: Sea stars are commonly called starfish. However, sea stars are not fish at all. The sea star is an echinoderm, and is closely related to sea urchins and sand dollars. Remember when talking about sea stars call them sea stars.)

Denise Mohsenin serves as the link between Marine Science Institute and the education community. She enjoys helping schools and teachers bring marine science and environmental literacy to their students. Her current favorite fish for teaching is the starry flounder. Ask her why at denise@sfbaymsi.org.