The Long-rayed Brittle Star, also known as the Snaky-armed Brittle Star, is a species of brittle star scientifically classified as Amphiodia occidentalis. It belongs to the family Amphiuridae and is known for its slender, serpentine arms that are longer than its central disk.
Description & Characteristics
The Long-rayed Brittle Star has a small, central disk that can reach a maximum size of 15 millimeters in diameter. It has five long, slender arms that can be up to 10 times the length of its central disk, giving it its characteristic snaky appearance. The arms are covered in small scales and are typically brown or gray in color, although they may have a reddish tinge in some individuals. The Long-rayed Brittle Star is a common sight in shallow waters, where it often lies among rocks and coral, using its long arms to search for food.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Long-rayed Brittle Star is found in a variety of marine zones, from shallow coastal areas to deeper waters. Its preferred habitat includes rocky reefs, sand bottoms, and seagrass beds. The Long-rayed Brittle Star can be found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone to over 100 meters, although it is most common in shallower waters. The species is widely distributed along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California.
Taxonomy
The species Amphiodia occidentalis belongs to the Class: Ophiuroidea, Order: Amphilepidida, and Family: Amphiuridae. This classification places it within a group of marine invertebrates known for their star-shaped bodies and flexible arms, which are often used for locomotion and feeding.
Feeding
The Long-rayed Brittle Star, Amphiodia occidentalis, is a detritivore, meaning it feeds primarily on dead organic matter. It also consumes diatoms, a type of single-celled algae that can be found in large quantities in its marine habitat. The Long-rayed Brittle Star uses its long arms to collect food particles and then transports them to its mouth located on the underside of its central disk.
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