UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Cushion star

Asterina gibbosa

Type

Echinoderms, Starfish

Description

Cushion stars are similar to other starfish but have shorter, stubbier arms.

While the adults are a little drab in colour, juveniles can be dazzlingly bright, among seaweeds higher up the shore in summer.

Location

This species is common, especially in South and West, under boulders on the shore - make sure you replace rocks as you find them.

Habitat

Rocky shore, Lower shore, Middle shore, Rock pools