Comatulidae

Comatulidae is a large and diverse family of feather stars, which are echinoderms belonging to the class Crinoidea. These fascinating marine creatures are found in a wide range of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep sea environments. With over 600 described species, Comatulidae is one of the most prominent families within the order Comatulida, making them crucial to the understanding of crinoid diversity.

Noble Feather Star – Comaster nobilis

Bennett’s Feather Star – Anneissia bennetti

Common Names

Members of the Comatulidae family are commonly known as feather stars, due to their feathery, branched arms. They are also sometimes referred to as "sea lilies" or "stalked crinoids," although these terms are more broadly applied to crinoids in general.

Characteristics

Comatulidae are characterized by their distinct features, including:

  • Motile lifestyle: Unlike their stalked relatives, Comatulidae are free-living and can move actively using their arms, unlike other crinoids.
  • Five arms: Like all crinoids, they have five arms, which are further branched into pinnules, creating their feathery appearance.
  • Cirri: Comatulidae possess cirri, small, hook-like appendages that are used for gripping surfaces and for locomotion.
  • Central disc: They have a central disc, which contains the mouth, anus, and other vital organs.
  • Variety in size: Comatulidae species can vary in size, ranging from a few centimeters to over a meter in diameter.

Environments

Comatulidae are found in a wide range of marine environments, including:

  • Coral reefs: Many Comatulidae species thrive in the diverse and complex ecosystems of coral reefs.
  • Shallow waters: Comatulidae are often found in shallow, coastal waters, particularly those with rocky or sandy bottoms.
  • Deep sea: Some Comatulidae species inhabit deep sea environments, where they are often found on seamounts and underwater canyons.

References

For further information on Comatulidae, consult these reliable sources: