The crown-of-thorns starfish is a large, spiky predator found on coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific. Its body is covered in venomous spines that offer protection, and it feeds voraciously on reef corals by everting its stomach over the polyps. Outbreaks of this starfish can devastate coral communities, making it a significant concern for reef health.
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.