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Starfish, also known as sea stars, are marine animals belonging to the class Asteroidea in the phylum Echinodermata. They are characterized by their star-shaped bodies, usually with five arms radiating from a central disc. Starfish possess a unique water vascular system that allows them to move slowly across the ocean floor, feeding on various types of marine life such as mollusks and small fish. They have no brain or central nervous system but possess a complex network of nerves that enable them to sense their environment and react to stimuli. Starfish play an important role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by controlling populations of certain organisms and contributing to nutrient cycles. Their distinctive appearance and fascinating biology make them a popular subject of study and admiration among marine biologists and hobbyists alike.