The winged sea star or wrinkled star (Pteraster militaris) is a species that we sometimes find when we are dragging. It is yellow to orange on top with the five arms having darker orange tips. This star is interesting as it is the only one known in which the female both broods young and broadcasts gametes. The eggs are brooded in a pouch on top of the star, where they grow into tiny, little stars. When the little stars are ready they burst through the protective membrane of the female, leaving her with a very ragged look afterward.
Winged sea star
Note the young star emerging from between the arm
pointing toward you and the one to the left of it.
