eastern cape scuba diving
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| Scientific name: |
Amphipholis squamata |
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| Common name: |
Scaly-armed brittlestar |
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| Taxonomy |
| Phyulm |
Sub Phylum |
Class |
Sub Class |
Order |
Sub Order |
Family |
Sub Family |
Genus |
Species |
| Echinodermata |
Not defined |
Ophiuroidea |
Not defined |
Ophiurida |
Gnathophiurina |
Amphiuridae |
Not defined |
Amphipholis |
Amphipholis squamata |
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Short Description:
The disk is very small andt is white or gray in color, circular in shape, and covered with scales. The arms are relatively short and thin. The radial plates are half-moon shaped and conspicuous. Dwarf brittle stars come in a range of colors from orange, dark brown or beige to black and gray. Previously these color varieties were thought to belong to sibling species, but genetic analyses do not support this hypothesis.
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Identification
features: |
Distinguished ny the arrangement of scales on the upper surface of the arms |
| Size: |
The disk is very small, attaining a maximum diameter of only 5 mm |
| Behaviour: |
A good climber that also uses its tube feet when it moves. The arms are extremely flexible in a vertical direction |
| Diet: |
Feeds on deposits left on sediment and particles suspended in the water |
| Distribution: |
World-wide |
| Depth: |
1-100m |
| Habitat: |
Live mainly under stones but also on sandy surfaces |
| Reference: |
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| Similar Species: |
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Database Statistics
(Click on the links for more information) |
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eastern cape scuba diving
