What is the Cushion starfish life-cycle?

1. Adult starfish: Cushion starfish are typically red or orange in color and have a cushion-like body with five arms. They are found in shallow waters along the Pacific coast of North America.

2. Reproduction: Cushion starfish reproduce sexually. They release sperm and eggs into the water, where fertilization occurs.

3. Embryonic development: The fertilized eggs develop into free-swimming larvae called bipinnaria. The bipinnaria larvae feed on plankton and grow rapidly.

4. Metamorphosis: After a few weeks, the bipinnaria larvae undergo metamorphosis and settle down on the sea floor. They transform into juvenile starfish, which look like miniature versions of the adults.

5. Growth and maturation: Juvenile starfish continue to grow and mature over the next few years. They feed on a variety of invertebrates, including mussels, barnacles, and sea urchins.

6. Reproduction and the cycle repeats: Once they reach sexual maturity, cushion starfish begin to reproduce, and the life-cycle repeats itself.