Lilstar



Split off from C. multiteneresca, the little star is present in sunlight zones. It has increased in size due to becoming increasingly multicellular. An individual has 2 types of cells--“inner” cells which lack external baits and move in a rhythmic fashion to swim, and “outer” cells which catch food, including smaller cells and bits of dead organisms, using its numerous baits as it swims past. As any cell that breaks off is capable of creating a new little star, it now reproduces by fragmentation. It can be found all over the daylight zones and can cluster in groups near areas with lots of food. It is otherwise similar to its ancestor; the individual cells are connected together by tiny modified baits, and they share nutrition and energy with one another to keep the whole organism alive. It is also capable of using oxygen as an energy source by converting it to carbon dioxide, though it still needs food.