Scientists Discovered Starfish Can See!

For long time it’s been thought that Starfishes can’t see. But lately scientists have discovered that they were wrong as Starfishes can really see!


Starfishes or sea stars are found from the intertidal zone down to abyssal depths, 6,000 m (20,000 ft) below the surface. They typically have a central disc and five arms (some has more arms). Their upper surface is covered with overlapping plates. Starfishes come in different colors and in various shades of red, orange, blue, grey or brown. They have tube feet operated by a hydraulic system and a mouth at the center of the lower surface.

However, lately scientists have discovered that Starfishes can see images with their tiny compound eyes which are at the end of their legs. The eyes aren’t very powerful. The eyes can see things beyond 4 meters (13 feet). Scientists also found that the eyes of Starfishes lack a lens like the compound eyes of insects, can’t process quick movements, and can’t sense colors. Starfishes use their eyes to navigate toward reef corals, and for finding food or avoiding predators.

Scientists have published their study on January 8 in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Source: Discover Magazine
Thanks To: National Geography

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