Question

Compare the Asterias Amuneris to a very closely related speices that belong to the same genus, preferably a sister species.
If you can, please add a picture and a general description of the organism. Explain broadly, the relationship between the Asterias Amuneris and this close relative. What are the differences between the two? Are they primarily based on where the organisms are found? Mating habits? Other lifestyle features?

Answer 1

Asterias amurensis is also knowm as northern pacific seastar, belongs to the Asteriidae family. It has the potential to grow upto 50cm, a distinct feature being the upturned tips it has. It has many species within the same family, example Asterias rubens, generally grows between 10-30cm.

Asterias amurensis has been known to be a very invasive species, and feeds on a lot of diverse preys. It originally habitated in north pacific waters, but now has spread on the Australian coasts too.

One key difference between the amurensis and the rubens species is that they are located in different geographies. Asterias rubens is predominantly found in north east atlantic waters. Their feeding habits also differ, with amurensis species feeding on a lot more variety than the rubens species which primarily feeds on benthic organisms (that live near sea bed).

Mating habits also differ, amurensis species can reproduce both sexually and asexually , while rubens species produces sexually.

Asterias amurensis species has no specific uses till now, while Asterias rubens species has found certain medicinal uses in neuralgia, sycotic diathesis,lancinating pains.