The multi-coloured Eight-armed Cushion Stars feed on everything, from pieces of seaweed to rotting flesh from dead fish, and live bivalves such as mussels. They occur on and under rocks across their habitat

At a glance

Habitat Rocky reefs, seagrass meadows and tidal pools, to depth of 10 m
Size This sea star attains a maximum diameter from arm tip to arm tip of 5 cm-10 cm
Origin Native
Distribution Australian coasts from Western Australia's south coast to Queensland's coast off Currumbin, while including Tasmania, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales
Descriptions
Distribution
Australian coasts from Western Australia's south coast to Queensland's coast off Currumbin, while including Tasmania, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales
Habitat
Rocky reefs, seagrass meadows and tidal pools, to depth of 10 m
Size
This sea star attains a maximum diameter from arm tip to arm tip of 5 cm-10 cm

Identification

Typically eight arms with a variation of colours often looking like a carpet leading to one of its names Carpet sea star, the distinct arms are triangular, though 7- or 9-armed individuals can be found. These "arms" are laterally fused together for some of their length, leaving ray-like tips of varying length to jut from the disk-like body. This species aboral surface can be any colour or combination of colours, while the oral side is uniformly pale. This sea star attains a maximum diameter from arm tip to arm tip of 5 cm–10 cm.

Common Name Eight-armed Cushion Star
Aliases Carpet Sea Star, Cushion Sea Star,
Origin Native
Conservation No Conservation Status
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumEchinodermata
ClassAsteroidea
OrderValvatida
FamilyAsterinidae
GenusMeridiastra
SpeciesMeridiastra calcar
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
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Added Thu 19 Mar 2026 @ 06:09 AM
Updated Mon 10 Aug 2026 @ 11:38 AM
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.