A Leather Star Sea Star (Dermasterias imbricata)

When our children were much younger (and we were too) and we went to the beach to explore our guide book was “Exploring the Seashore, in British Columbia, Washington and Oregon” written by Gloria Snively. Our edition was printed in 1978 and was purchased in the gift shop on a B.C. ferry while on the way to the west coast of Vancouver Island. That was where we came across our first Leather Star. Ms. Snively says in her book, “It has a peculiar garlic smell.”. This smell is more evident if you scratch the ventral surface. Imagine being a child and finding a “scratch and sniff” sea star!
By the way, our “Exploring the Seashore” is literally falling apart from use. It was really the only book of its nature giving both common and scientific knowledge... at the time.

comments (5)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

What a beautiful find and wrapped in a great story. Awesome how a single book can make such a lasting impression. I'm glad it put you on the path to admire nature. Posted 7 years ago
1. gary fast
  
  Lion
  
  Yes, going through the book and looking at the notes hand written on the pages is a great reminder of the kayaking, camping and hiking adventures that we and that book have been on. Posted 7 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    Preserve the book, Gary, cherish it. Posted 7 years ago

Patomarazul

Lion

I love the beautiful critters you can find in tide pools in your West coast! Posted 7 years ago
1. gary fast
  
  Lion
  
  Thank you for your comment. We live right on the ocean and this fellow was in our “front yard” when the tide went out. There was a die off of the Ochre stars and therefore the Leather Star seem to be more prevalent than ever because of the absence of the others. Fortunately the Ochres are coming back... but slowly. Posted 7 years ago