Pink sea star with five broad arms and a textured surface.

Bat star

Patiria miniata
Where at Shedd?
Oceans Polar Play Zone
Diet Algae and very small animals called zoobenthos from the ocean floor
Size Maximum diameter of 8 inches (20 cm)
Type Sea stars
Range East-Central Pacific Ocean
Habitat Along the coast over rubble and sandy bottoms

Did you know?

  1. While the bat sea star is not native to the Indo-Pacific Ocean, it's not an invasive species in this exhibit. It's here on purpose: The algae-eating sea star's natural feeding behavior helps keep the habitat clean.