What Color Are Starfish?

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Starfish color varies depending on the species and even the presence or absence of environmental threats — most species have the ability to change color, via camouflage, to match their surroundings. Some starfish are naturally tan and dark brown, while others may be light pink or crimson red.

Cushion stars are a species of reef-dwelling echinoderms that live in the Atlantic Ocean. This species ranges in color from rusty brown to burnt sienna, red and yellow. Sunflower starfish also range in color: they may appear in shades of purple, red, pink and brown. The orange starfish is one species that retains a uniform orange-and-red coat of color with only slight variations among individuals’ colors.