Mussels, Barnacles, and
Sea Stars

On the left side of this photo are California mussels. On the right side are gooseneck barnacles. In between are common (ochre) sea stars.

A study of the ochre sea star (sp. Pisaster ochraceus) lead to the ecological concept of keystone species - a species that is critical to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Without the presence of sea stars, mussels would likely overrun the ecosystem, altering its balance and significantly reducing its biodiversity.

Photo by Joel Clapp

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