Meridiastra
''Meridiastra'' is a genus of star fish in the family Asterinidae. The genus is found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, with most records from the waters around Australia. They occur in shallow waters down to a depth of about . ''Meridiastra'' are morphologically similar to the Atlantic genus ''Asterina (starfish), Asterina''. They are also phylogenetically close and possibly Sister group, sister genera. Etymology The generic name is derived from the Latin ''meridies'' (=south) and ''astrum'' (=star), in reference to the southern Australian and Pacific distribution of the genus (at the time of description – the genus now includes also species occurring on the northern hemisphere (Mexico, Panama)). Description ''Meridiastra'' are sea stars with five to eight rays (arms). They range from very small (''Meridiastra rapa'': radius ) to medium-sized (''Meridiastra gunnii'': radius ). The interradial margin is straight to incurved; when the rays are distinct, they have narrowly roun ...
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