Star Horseshoe Worm
Pomatostegus stellatus

f22 @ 1/60s, ASA 25, Kodachrome 25 film, Nikonos II w 28mm and 1:2 extension tube, Oceanic flash w aluminim flash reflector

\"Star Horseshoe Worm,\" Reef Creature Identification, Paul Humann & Ned Deloach. Double fold of radioles for U shaped crown. Long heavy stalked operculum has circular tip with no horns or heavy spikes; at the center is a star shaped pattern of fine spines. Common Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean. Shy; when approached instantly retract crowns into tube and close openings with operculum. If diver waits motionless, for several minutes, crowns may slowly extend and reopen.

Salt River Canyon, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

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