What does a star fish typically eat?

A starfish's diet varies depending on its species and habitat, but generally, they are carnivorous animals and feed on a wide range of marine invertebrates. Here are some common food sources for starfish:

1. Mollusks: Starfish are known to prey on various mollusks, including bivalves (clams, oysters, mussels) and gastropods (snails, limpets). They use their tube feet to attach to the shells of mollusks and exert force to pry them open.

2. Crustaceans: Starfish feed on crustaceans like crabs, shrimp, and barnacles. They can grab and crush the exoskeletons of crustaceans with their powerful arms.

3. Echinoderms: Some starfish species prey on other echinoderms, including sea urchins, sand dollars, and brittle stars. They can use their tube feet to attach to these animals and pull them apart.

4. Polychaetes: Starfish consume polychaetes, also known as marine worms. They can capture and ingest these worms using their tube feet and digestive system.

5. Sponges: Certain starfish species feed on sponges. They use their tube feet to attach to the sponge and then use their digestive enzymes to break down and ingest the sponge tissue.

6. Plankton: While starfish are typically not filter feeders, some species can capture plankton particles, such as small crustaceans and diatoms, from the water.

It's worth noting that some starfish species are also known to engage in scavenging behavior, feeding on dead or dying fish or other marine animals when available.