Ochre Sea Star Tucked Between Tidal Rocks
Saturday, July 18th, 2026 at 3:18:17 PM · 2026/Schoolhouse Beach Tide Pools
This close-up photograph captures one or possibly two ochre sea stars (Pisaster ochraceus) nestled tightly in a crevice between dark, wet rocks at a Pacific coast tide pool. The sea star displays its characteristic orange-brown coloration with prominent white pedicellariae (tiny pincer-like structures) covering its bumpy aboral surface, creating a striking textural contrast. A piece of brown kelp is visible in the upper right corner, adding to the rich intertidal ecosystem context. The surrounding substrate is composed of fine gravel and small pebbles, typical of a rocky beach environment, while the wet sheen on the rocks and sand indicates recent wave action or low tide conditions. The image conveys the intimate, hidden world of the intertidal zone, revealing the complexity and beauty of organisms that thrive in these challenging environments.
Chronologically Adjacent
