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The Rhinoceros Seastar (Protoreaster nodulosus) is a large seastar species that is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species belongs to the Oreasteridae family and can be found in the waters of northern Australia from north western Australia around the north to Mackay in Queensland. It has also been recorded in the reefs of northern Australia including the Rowley Shoals and Ashmore Reef. It can be found in shallow protected waters and is commonly found in amongst seagrass meadows or sandy/muddy habitats. Even though it is commonly found in shallow waters it has been recorded down to depths of 30 metres. It is known to feed on algae, seagrass and detritus. It is generally orange in colour, has 5 arms and has dark black nodules on the upper surface. It has a maximum width of approximately 40 cm.
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