Ophidiaster
Ophidiaster is a genus of starfish, belonging to the family Ophidiasteridae. They are commonly referred to as “serpent stars” due to their long, slender arms. Ophidiaster species inhabit coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores throughout the Indo-Pacific region, exhibiting a wide range of colors and patterns. Their five arms are typically covered with spines, which aid in locomotion and defense. Ophidiaster stars are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of organisms, including algae, sponges, and small invertebrates.
Common Names
Common names for Ophidiaster species include:
- Serpent star
- Long-armed starfish
- Snake star
Characteristics
Ophidiaster species possess several distinctive characteristics that differentiate them from other starfish:
- Long, slender arms: The arms are considerably longer than the central disc, giving the star a serpentine appearance.
- Spines: The arms are covered with numerous spines, which aid in locomotion and provide protection.
- Coloration: Ophidiaster species exhibit a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, brown, and gray, often with intricate patterns.
- Feeding: They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a diverse range of organisms, including algae, sponges, and small invertebrates.
- Reproduction: Ophidiaster stars reproduce sexually, releasing eggs and sperm into the water. The larvae are planktonic, drifting in the currents for several weeks before settling on the seabed.
Environment
Ophidiaster species are found in tropical and subtropical waters throughout the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer shallow, clear waters with abundant coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores. They are typically found at depths of 1-30 meters.
References
For further information on Ophidiaster, consult the following resources: