What do ochre sea stars eat?

Ochre sea stars (Pisaster ochraceus) are carnivores and primarily feed on bivalve mollusks, such as mussels, clams, and oysters. They use their strong arms and tube feet to pry open the shells of their prey.

Here's a breakdown of their diet:

* Primary Prey: Mussels, clams, oysters, and other bivalves.

* Secondary Prey: Barnacles, snails, and other invertebrates.

* Occasional Prey: Dead animals, algae, and detritus.

They play a crucial role in the intertidal ecosystem by controlling the population of mussels and other bivalves, creating space for other species to thrive.