CRITTERCONFIDENTIAL
SPINY STARFISH ( Marthasterias glacialis ) – This , rather than the so-called ‘ common ’ starfish ( Asterias rubens ) is the dominant one on these reefs and is usually more prominent than the partially hidden one here . Their pale blue colouration makes a very attractive contrast against the colours of the seaweed . In the summer , they can be found climbing up to high vantage points on the kelp to release their spawn .
CUSHION STAR ( Asterina gibbosa ) – There are three of these miniature starfish under rocky overhangs to the right of my picture . They feed mainly by grazing on dead animal and plant material . Unlike most starfish , which have separate sexes , this species starts as a male and changes into a female later in life .
CORAL WEED ( Corallina officinalis and other species ) – While not a ‘ critter ’ as such , it deserves a mention for giving much of the reef its fabulous hues of pink and serving as a vital building material for that most handsome and diligent of critters , the corkwing wrasse . Male corkwing wrasse collect coral weed to use in the protective outer shell of their intricate nests .
By focussing on just the obvious and easily recognised species , I have barely touched on the amazing biodiversity on reefs such as this . There are sponges encrusting the rocks and a quick look deeper into the crevices would reveal prawns , more crabs , squat lobsters and fish including rocklings , clingfish and , my personal favourite , tompot blennies . The photograph was taken in the very clear conditions of early April ; if I had waited a few weeks it would have been difficult to keep wrasse out of the frame too ! �
Velvet swimming crab ‘ in berry ’ carrying eggs beneath her
Large topknot showing the distinctive ‘ bandit ’ face stripe
Miniature starfish with the distinctive shape
Spiny starfish releasing spawn from its elevated position on the kelp
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