Sea stars are born through a variety of methods, primarily involving the release of eggs and subsequent hatching, though some species brood their eggs.
Sea star reproduction varies among species, but generally follows these patterns:
- Spawning (External Fertilization): Most sea stars release their eggs and sperm directly into the water. Fertilization occurs externally, and the fertilized eggs develop into larvae.
- Brooding: Some sea star species brood their eggs. This means the female sea star either holds the eggs under her body or in specialized structures until they hatch into miniature sea stars.
- Development: Whether spawned or brooded, the eggs hatch into larvae. These larvae are free-swimming and undergo several developmental stages before transforming into juvenile sea stars.
Essentially, sea stars are born either from eggs released into the water that hatch into larvae, or from eggs that are brooded and hatch into miniature versions of the adult form.
