Asterinidae
Asterinidae is a family of small, five-armed sea stars, commonly known as starfish or sea stars. They are found in a variety of marine environments, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and soft sediments, all around the world. Asterinidae are characterized by their relatively small size, often less than 5 cm in diameter, and their compact, often granular or bumpy texture. They are generally brightly colored, ranging from shades of brown, gray, and orange to vibrant reds, greens, and blues.
Characteristics
Asterinidae share a number of common characteristics, including:
- Five arms, although some species may have up to seven
- A central disk that is often larger than the arms
- A madreporite, a small, sieve-like structure on the aboral surface (upper side) of the central disk
- A series of tube feet on the underside of the arms, used for locomotion and feeding
- A carnivorous diet, primarily consisting of small invertebrates
Environment
Asterinidae are found in a wide range of marine environments, but they are particularly common in shallow, intertidal zones. They prefer areas with hard substrates, such as rocks and coral reefs, but can also be found in soft sediments.
Asterinidae are a diverse family, with over 100 species described. They play an important role in marine ecosystems, both as predators and prey. Some species are popular in the aquarium trade, due to their attractive colors and small size.
References
For more information about Asterinidae, you can consult the following resources: