common sun star

<em>Crossaster papposus</em>, the common sun star, is a large starfish in the family Solasteridae, order Valvatida. It is distributed across the North Atlantic and North Pacific, with recorded occurrences in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden as well as in Arctic and subarctic marine environments. The species typically inhabits subtidal and intertidal rocky substrates and sandy or gravelly seabeds, ranging from shallow coastal waters to depths of several hundred meters. <em>Crossaster papposus</em> is distinguished by its large size, typically bearing between eight and fourteen arms, and its vivid, rose-red to purple coloration with a distinctive multi-banded pattern. It is an active predator feeding on a wide variety of invertebrates including other echinoderms, sea urchins, molluscs, and bryozoans, playing an important role in regulating benthic community structure. Biological traits including precise average body diameter under field conditions, lifespan, and detailed reproductive parameters remain poorly documented in the scientific literature. The species is assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, reflecting its wide distribution in cold-water marine habitats and no known major threats to global populations.