Fin's Fish Guide
The Star pearlfish (Carapus mourlani) is a saltwater fish of the family Carapidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The star pearlfish is a remarkable pearlfish from the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Hawaii and southern Japan. The species grows to about 21 cm and has a slender, translucent, rearward-tapering body without pelvic fins. Remarkably, it lives as a lodger inside starfishes, especially the pincushion star, and sometimes in sea cucumbers, usually in a pair of a male and a female. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Star pearlfish?
The Star pearlfish has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Lives as a resident in starfish (cushion star) and sea cucumbers
Where does the Star pearlfish live?
The Star pearlfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Star pearlfish get?
The Star pearlfish grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Star pearlfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Star pearlfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Star pearlfish edible?
The Star pearlfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Star pearlfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Star pearlfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carapus
More from the family Carapidae
Want the complete picture on the Star pearlfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Star pearlfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.