Can starfish be cut in half and live?

It's a common misconception that starfish can be cut in half and live. While starfish have incredible regenerative abilities, cutting them in half will not result in two surviving starfish.

Here's why:

* Central Disk: Starfish have a central disk where their vital organs are located. If this disk is cut, the starfish will die.

* Regeneration: Starfish *can* regenerate lost limbs, but only if a portion of the central disk remains attached.

* Stress and Infection: Cutting a starfish in half is extremely stressful and leaves it vulnerable to infection. Even if a limb regenerates, the starfish is likely to die from the trauma.

It's important to remember that harming starfish is cruel and unnecessary. They are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in their ecosystems.

If you see a starfish, please observe it respectfully and leave it unharmed.