Vibrant Sea Stars Clustered in Pacific Tide Pool
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 at 2:57:05 PM · 2026/Schoolhouse Beach Tide Pools
This close-up photograph captures a dense aggregation of sea stars (starfish) of multiple colors and species clustered together in a rocky intertidal zone at low tide. The image features striking orange ochre sea stars (Pisaster ochraceus) alongside deep purple and maroon specimens, all exhibiting the characteristic bumpy, granular texture of their species with white pebbled ossicles along their arms. A dark blue-black mussel shell is visible among the sea stars, likely being consumed or recently preyed upon, while green anemone tentacles peek through gaps between the animals. The rocky substrate is covered in barnacles, algae, sand, and shell fragments, creating a rich intertidal ecosystem snapshot. The photograph conveys the remarkable biodiversity and ecological vitality of a Pacific Coast tide pool environment.
Chronologically Adjacent
