Sea Stars of the Salish Sea

There are over 30 species of Sea Stars to be discovered in the Pacific Northwest.  Divers have access to most of them, whereas those snorkeling, free diving and tide-pooling will be limited to the upper sub-tidal and intertidal zones.  Most of these photos were taken in the Salish Sea in relatively calm areas at very low tide. Where possible I have provided two images of each species, where useful, in order to illustrate how different angles and colours can make identification quite difficult.  Click on the photos or texts and you will be taken to more images and details about the species. For more information, and photos sea Neil McDaniel’s Sea Star’s of the Pacific Northwest.  It’s an excellent source.

Giant Pink Star

Giant Pink Star, Pisaster brevispinus

Giant Pink Star

Giant Pink Star, Unusual Colour

Rainbow Star

Rainbow Star, Orthasterias koehleri

Purple Star

Purple Star, Pisaster ochraceus

Ochre sea star juvenile wm

Juvenile Purple Ochre Star

Mottled Star

Mottled Star, Evasterias troschelii

Mottled Star

Mottled Star, Evasterias troschelii

Blood Star

Blood Star, Henricia leviuscula

Blood Star

Blood Star, Henricia leviuscula

Armpit Sea Star

Armpit Sea Star, Henricia sp. A

Unknown Sea Star

Unknown Sea Star, Solaster?

Drab Six-rayed Sea Star

Drab Six-rayed Sea Star

Colourful Six-armed Star, Leptasterias aequalis

Colourful Six-armed Star, Leptasterias aequalis

Striped Suns Star

Striped Sun Star, Solaster stimpsoni

Leather Star

Leather Star, Dermasterias imbricata