All echinoderms are capable of sexual and asexual reproduction. Most are ethier male or female, but in some cases could be hermaphodites. Fertilization takes place externally, by both males and females realeasing their gametes into the environment during the reproductive season. The animals will release their sperm and eggs into the sea and detect gametes of their own species and then later, they will release theirs. Soon after this process, larvae will begin to swim around, along with plankton. Afterwards, the larvae, which have bilateral symmetry, swim to the floor of the ocean and start to mature and matamorphosose into adults which contain radial symmetry. Sea stars are unbelievable animals. They have the ability to heal themselves when been attacted by predators. Interesting fact, sea stars are able to regenerate into a brand new organism if pulled apart, but only as long as it has a portion of the middle area on the body. Sea stars are incredible and clever creatures that cause a lot of trouble for fisherman, especially the ones who earn their living catching mollusks.
To view a diagram of the reproduction and life cycle of a Sea Star, click here and scroll down the website:
http://www.oceaninn.com/guides/echino.htm
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