Shaggy Brittle Star
Ophiactis asperula
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 5–1000 m
- For divers: safe
This brittle star ranges from the shallows down to about 1,000 metres, tucked between stones, among kelp holdfasts and within the giant kelp forests of cooler seas. It coils its slender arms around shells and hydroids and feeds on whatever drifts past.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Echinodermata › Ophiuroidea › Amphilepidida › Ophiactidae › Ophiactis
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 236037.
FAQ
- How deep does the Shaggy Brittle Star live?
- The Shaggy Brittle Star (Ophiactis asperula) is typically found at 5–1000 m.
- Is the Shaggy Brittle Star dangerous to divers?
- The Shaggy Brittle Star is harmless to divers.