The Mediterranean Feather Star, Antedon mediterranea, is a species of crinoid, a type of echinoderm characterized by its feathery arms. It is a common sight in the Mediterranean Sea, where it thrives in a variety of habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Antedon mediterranea is a small, delicate crinoid. Its body is composed of a central cup-shaped structure, known as the calyx, which is connected to five long, feathery arms. These arms are further subdivided into numerous pinnules, giving the animal its characteristic feathery appearance. The color of Antedon mediterranea can vary, ranging from pale gray to reddish-brown. Its maximum size is relatively small, reaching a maximum length of around 10 centimeters. The Mediterranean Feather Star’s body is covered with a thin, flexible skin, which allows it to bend and move its arms gracefully.
Habitat and Occurrence
Antedon mediterranea is a common inhabitant of the Mediterranean Sea, occurring in a range of depths, from the intertidal zone to depths of around 100 meters. It prefers habitats with moderate water currents and ample food availability. This crinoid is often found attached to rocks, algae, or other hard substrates. The Mediterranean Feather Star is a key component of the Mediterranean’s biodiversity, particularly in its neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Antedon mediterranea belongs to the Class: Crinoidea, Order: Comatulida, and Family: Antedonidae. The Crinoidea is a class of echinoderms that are characterized by their radial symmetry and the presence of five arms, which are often branched. The Comatulida are an order of crinoids known as feather stars, which are characterized by their ability to move freely and their feathery arms. The Antedonidae are a family of feather stars, which are distinguished by their small size and delicate appearance.
Feeding
Antedon mediterranea is a suspension feeder, using its feathery arms to capture small food particles from the surrounding water. Its diet primarily consists of copepods, cyclops, and other zooplankton. Antedon mediterranea is a food specialist, meaning it relies on a specific food source, in this case, the abundant zooplankton population of the Mediterranean Sea. The feather star’s arms are covered with tiny cilia, which create water currents that draw food particles towards its mouth. Antedon mediterranea‘s feeding strategy allows it to efficiently capture and consume its prey, making it a successful member of its marine ecosystem.
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