Divers have captured this rare footage of Northern Pacific sea stars thriving beneath the frozen surface of the Sea of Japan.
The video, recorded on 26th February, showcases these marine invertebrates navigating the crystal-clear, icy waters off the coast of Vladivostok, Russia.
The Northern Pacific sea star (Asterias amurensis), also known as the Japanese common starfish, native to the northern Pacific, is well-adapted to cold environments.
Its ecological flexibility allows it to survive and remain active in temperatures that would be prohibitive for many other species.
This resilience is partly due to its ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures and salinities, enabling it to thrive even under ice-covered seas.
Clipzilla/NX
Vladivostok experiences harsh winters, with February being particularly cold.
Average sea temperatures during this month hover around minus 0.3 degrees Celsius (31.5 degrees Fahrenheit), making the sea surface prone to freezing.
Such conditions are typical for the region, and the formation of sea ice is a common occurrence.
While many marine species become dormant or migrate to warmer waters during frigid periods, the Northern Pacific sea star remains active.
Its adaptability allows it to survive and continue its predatory activities, feeding on bivalve mollusks and other invertebrates even under the ice.
This footage offers a unique glimpse into the resilience of marine life in extreme conditions and highlights the sea star’s remarkable adaptability to its icy habitat.
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