Genus
Common name: Red Cushion Sea Star
Scientific name: Porania
Porania is a genus of deep-sea dwelling cushion stars found in cold waters. They are characterized by their thick, pillow-like bodies and short, stubby arms. Porania species are not commonly kept in home aquariums due to their specialized habitat requirements and the difficulty in replicating deep-sea conditions. They are fascinating creatures for scientific study, often found at depths where sunlight does not penetrate, relying on a diet of detritus and small invertebrates.