Unique Ecosystem - Marine Life
The blue bat star is one of the most commonly seen starfish along the coast of Japan. It inhabits rocky reefs and sandy intertidal zones to depths of 300 m. It is grey in color with patches of orange, forming different patterns on each individual. The starfish is about 10 cm in size and preys on crabs, hermit crabs, and shellfish. The blue bat star normally has five arms. The shape of the starfish, which looks like a spool, gave it its Japanese name itomaki-hitode ("spool starfish").
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Scientific Name
Patiria pectinifera
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Classification
Family Asterinidae
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Distribution
From Hokkaido to the East China Sea, Korea
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Season
Not generally used for food.
