Pink Starfish Among Mussels in Tidal Pool
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 at 2:57:51 PM · 2026/Schoolhouse Beach Tide Pools
A pink ochre sea star (Pisaster ochraceus) is wedged among a dense bed of California mussels (Mytilus californianus) at low tide, its textured, granular surface standing out vividly against the dark shells. The starfish appears to be in a somewhat contracted or stressed state, possibly exhibiting signs of Sea Star Wasting Syndrome given its slightly distorted arm shape. The mussels are tightly packed and show the characteristic dark blue-black coloration with growth ridges typical of the Pacific coast intertidal zone. Wet rock is visible at the bottom of the frame, indicating this photo was taken during low tide exposure. The close-up perspective reveals the intricate bumpy ossicle texture of the sea star's aboral surface in striking detail.
Chronologically Adjacent
