Archasteridae
Archasteridae is a family of starfish, belonging to the order Valvatida. These sea stars are characterized by their relatively small size and often brightly colored bodies, which feature a pentagonal shape with distinct, flattened arms. They inhabit a variety of marine environments, including the intertidal zone, coral reefs, and deep-sea habitats.
Common Names
Members of the Archasteridae family are commonly referred to as "sand stars" due to their frequent presence in sandy environments.
Characteristics
The following characteristics are common to members of the Archasteridae family:
- Small size: Archasteridae starfish typically range in size from a few centimeters to a maximum of around 15 centimeters.
- Pentagonal shape: Their bodies are generally pentagonal with five distinct arms.
- Flattened arms: Their arms are flattened and often quite broad, giving them a distinct appearance.
- Bright coloration: Archasteridae starfish are often brightly colored, exhibiting a variety of hues including red, orange, yellow, and blue.
- Spines: Their bodies are covered in small, blunt spines.
- Tube feet: They possess numerous tube feet along their undersides, used for locomotion and feeding.
Environment
Archasteridae starfish are found in a wide range of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones: Some species can be found in the intertidal zone, where they are exposed to both air and water.
- Coral reefs: Many species inhabit coral reefs, where they contribute to the ecosystem by feeding on algae.
- Deep-sea habitats: Other species are found in deeper water, inhabiting various seafloor habitats.
References
For more detailed information on the Archasteridae family, consult the following resources: