Ecology
Linckia multifora lives in both the sub-tidal and inter-tidal areas of coral reefs globally (Rideout, 1978). On Heron Island, this sea star was particularly abundant on the underside of rocks and coral thickets, but was also observed out in the open on the reef crest. The preferred habitat for this species allows it to blend into its environment using its distinct colouration. Small crustaceans and annelids were observed living on the sea stars. These did not appear to be harming the individuals, but are assumed to be using them for protection. Each individual found on Heron Island was solitary and not in the presence of other L. multifora. Although being a cryptic species, this may have been human error in the ability to find them.
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