Linckia sp. Giant red Sea star
This species is known for its striking polymorphism, commonly displaying colors such as pure, dark, or light blue, though variations in aqua, purple, or orange can also be found throughout the ocean. These sea stars can grow up to 30 cm (11.8 in) in diameter, with rounded tips at the end of each arm. Some individuals may feature lighter or darker spots along their arms. Typically firm in texture, Linckia stars have the slightly tubular, elongated arms common to other members of the Ophidiasteridae family, and usually possess short, yellowish tube feet. They inhabit coral reefs and seagrass beds, where they are relatively common, although found in sparse density across their range. Linckia stars live subtidally or sometimes intertidally on sandy or hard substrates and move at a mean rate of 8.1 cm/min. This giant specimen, mounted on a black lacquered wood base, originates from the Philippines.