Black Brittle Star

Ophiomastix janualis

Black Brittle Star

A small brittle star that hides by day beneath coral slabs and inside crevices, creeping out over rubble and sand at the reef edge. Its disc spans only a few centimetres while the arms stretch much longer, and it does no harm to divers.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Echinodermata › Ophiuroidea › Ophiacanthida › Ophiocomidae › Ophiomastix

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 243728.

FAQ

How deep does the Black Brittle Star live?
The Black Brittle Star (Ophiomastix janualis) is typically found at 0–22 m.
Is the Black Brittle Star dangerous to divers?
The Black Brittle Star is harmless to divers.
How big does the Black Brittle Star get?
The Black Brittle Star grows to about 2.8 cm.