This star is easily recognisable by the comb-like spines along the edge of the narrow arms. It is a flat star with dark brown bands or spots on a pale brown background. It has rather stumpy suckerless tube feet.

Buries in sand on sandy shores from low tide to about 30m deep. It comes out at night to feed.

Feeds on buried invertebrates such as bivalves and snails. It cannot evert its stomach so ingests prey whole and disposes of inedible bits. It can also scavenge on organic matter in the sand.

It seems to be a source of bioactive chemicals which appear to have anti cancer or anti inflammatory properties.

Photo Credit: Rod Morris. Photos available from www.rodmorris.co.nz