It is the largest and most common brittle star found, the disc is covered in minute scales, 4 spines per arm segment, dark stripes around arms they scavenge for food by extending their arms out at night.

They can drop off the ends of their arms, like lizards drop off their tails. These arm pieces have a green luminescent glow, thought to act as a decoy for predators to follow at night

At a glance

Habitat The depth range is from the inter-tidal zone to 180 metres below sea level. This brittle star may be found under boulders in tidal areas. It moves quickly away from light when exposed
Size Disc up to 2.5 cm wide, arms up to 15 cm long
Origin Native
Distribution Found off the coast of Australia. Areas include New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania
Descriptions
Distribution
Found off the coast of Australia. Areas include New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania
Habitat
The depth range is from the inter-tidal zone to 180 metres below sea level. This brittle star may be found under boulders in tidal areas. It moves quickly away from light when exposed
Size
Disc up to 2.5 cm wide, arms up to 15 cm long
Common Name Schayer's brittle star
Aliases Banded Brittle Star, Snake Star,
Origin Native
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumEchinodermata
ClassOphiuroidea
OrderAmphilepidida
FamilyOphionereididae
GenusOphionereis
SpeciesOphionereis schayeri
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
Original No original text available
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Added Sat 13 Jun 2020 @ 00:00 AM
Updated Tue 16 Nov 2021 @ 23:00 PM
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.