Hemieuryalidae
The Hemieuryalidae are a family of brittle stars within the order Euryalida. These are marine invertebrates found worldwide in a variety of habitats, including shallow-water reefs and the deep sea. They are distinguished by their long, slender arms and a distinctive, often prominent, dorsal shield.
Common Names
Hemieuryalidae are commonly referred to as "basket stars" due to their unique arm structure, which allows them to form a basket-like shape. This characteristic behavior is often used to catch food.
Characteristics
Members of Hemieuryalidae possess several key characteristics, including:
- Long, slender arms: These arms are often branched and can be very long, extending several times the diameter of the central disc.
- Prominent dorsal shield: The dorsal shield is a hard, protective plate on the top of the central disc.
- Small, inconspicuous oral shields: The oral shields are located on the underside of the central disc and are relatively small and inconspicuous.
- Branching arms: In some species, the arms may branch repeatedly, resulting in a highly complex and intricate structure.
Environments
Hemieuryalidae can be found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs: Shallow-water reefs are a common habitat for many species of Hemieuryalidae.
- Deep sea: Some species are adapted to life in the deep sea, where they can be found at depths of thousands of meters.
- Rocky shores: Hemieuryalidae are also found in rocky intertidal habitats, where they may be exposed to air during low tide.
References
For further information on Hemieuryalidae, consult these reliable references: