Infographic

Sea Stars (Starfish): Species, Diet, Habitat and Range

Everything you need to know about this multi-armed marine wonder
Text by: Phalguni Ranjan Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   June 12, 2026
Text by: Phalguni Ranjan Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   June 12, 2026
1 min read
Everything you need to know about this multi-armed marine wonder

Do sea stars have a brain or blood? 

No, sea stars they have no brain and no blood.  

How do sea stars move and eat? 

They use hydraulic pressure-powered tube feet.

What is the special superpower of a sea star?

They can regenerate lost arms and sometimes an entire body.

How do sea stars "see" if they do not have true vision? 

They use eye spots at the tip of each arm to sense light. 

Why are sea stars called "keystone predators"?

They maintain biodiversity and prevent a single prey species from dominating.

What's the difference between starfish and sea stars?

There’s no difference - both refer to the same animal. “Sea star” is the correct scientific name because they aren’t actually fish, while “starfish” is the more common, traditional term.

About the Authors

Phalguni Ranjan

Phalguni Ranjan

Drawing on her previous experience with outreach creatives, marine research, and communications to guide her, Phalguni uses words, art, and visuals to help people connect with wildlife and nature.