Ormstjärnor

Ormstjärnor, also known as sea stars or starfish, are marine invertebrates belonging to the class Asteroidea. They are characterized by their star-shaped body, which is divided into five or more arms radiating from a central disc. Ormstjärnor are found in oceans worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea environments. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and the seafloor.

The body of an ormstjärna is composed of a central disc and multiple arms, each of which is covered in tube feet. These feet are used for movement, feeding, and respiration. Ormstjärnor are suspension feeders, using their tube feet to filter small particles of food from the water. They are also capable of regenerating lost arms, a remarkable ability that has made them a subject of interest in biological research.

Ormstjärnor play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They help control the population of algae and other small organisms by grazing on them. Their presence can also indicate the health of a marine environment, as their populations can decline due to pollution and other environmental stressors.

Despite their ecological importance, ormstjärnor face several threats, including habitat destruction, pollution, and the impact of climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these valuable marine organisms and their habitats.