Anthenea
Anthenea is a genus of sea stars belonging to the family Astropectinidae. They are commonly known as sand stars due to their preference for sandy substrates. These echinoderms are characterized by their five arms, which are relatively short and thick compared to other sea stars. Their body surface is covered in small, granular ossicles, giving them a rough texture.
Characteristics
Anthenea species typically exhibit a pentagonal body shape with five arms emanating from the central disc. The arms are rounded and have a slightly flattened dorsal surface. The aboral surface (upper side) is covered in small, granular ossicles, giving the starfish a rough texture. The oral surface (underside) features a mouth surrounded by a ring of short, pointed spines. These spines are used for locomotion and feeding.
Environment
Anthenea sea stars are primarily found in shallow, sandy environments. They prefer areas with moderate wave action and abundant food sources. Their distribution encompasses tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the Indo-Pacific, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean Sea.
References
* World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)* National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)* ResearchGate