Types of Starfish in Maine: Spot and Identify Coastal Species
Maine's rocky shores host several starfish species, most commonly the common sea star (Asterias rubens) and the northern sea star. Start your search in tide pools and low-tide zones along the Midcoast and Downeast regions. The best sightings occur during spring and summer low tides.
Maine's rocky shores host several starfish species, most commonly the common sea star (Asterias rubens) and the northern sea star. Start your search in tide pools and low-tide zones along the Midcoast and Downeast regions. The best sightings occur during spring and summer low tides.
1. What are the most common types of starfish in Maine?
The two species you’re most likely to encounter are the common sea star (Asterias rubens) and the northern sea star (Asterias forbesi). The common sea star has a mottled orange to purple color and five arms with a smooth texture. The northern sea star is slightly smaller, with a more uniform gray or brown appearance and a central disk that is clearly defined. Both are abundant along the entire Maine coast.
2. How can you tell apart the main starfish species in Maine?
Focus on color and arm proportions. The common sea star shows orange, red, or purple hues, while northern sea stars are typically gray or brown with a distinct pale spot on the central disk. Another species to know is the blood star (Henricia sanguinolenta), which has long, slender arms and a bright red or orange color. For a more detailed guide, check out ourMaine wildlife hub.
3. Where and when are you most likely to see each type?
Common and northern sea stars thrive in rocky intertidal zones from Casco Bay to Mount Desert Island. Look under rocks and in crevices during low tide. Blood stars prefer deeper, colder waters, so you’ll need to dive or explore very low spring tides. Peak visibility runs from May to September, especially during minus tides. For more on starfish habitats, visit ourstarfish animal page.
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See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Are there any rare starfish species in Maine?
Yes. The purple sunstar (Solaster endeca) appears occasionally in the Gulf of Maine. It has 10 to 12 arms and a velvety orange or purple surface. The spiny starfish (Marthasterias glacialis) is another uncommon find, distinguished by large spines on its arms. Sightings are rare, so don’t expect to see them on every trip.
5. What should you bring for a starfish identification outing?
A field guide, a waterproof camera, and a pair of polarized sunglasses to cut glare. If you want a souvenir, check out ourtote bagsto carry your gear. For a tide pool adventure, wear sturdy boots and bring a small net.