What is a Starfish? — Passage

Starfish, also known as sea stars, are fascinating marine animals that captivate young learners. These unique echinoderms have a distinctive star-shaped body with multiple arms radiating from a central disc. Most starfish possess five arms, but some species can have up to 40! Unlike fish, starfish lack fins and scales. Instead, they use hundreds of tiny tube feet on their undersides for movement and feeding. Starfish come in various sizes, from as small as a thumbnail to as large as a dinner plate. One of their most remarkable features is their ability to regenerate lost arms, showcasing nature's incredible adaptability. Starfish play crucial roles in marine ecosystems and serve as excellent subjects for teaching children about ocean life and biodiversity.