One of two species in this genus this small brittle star is among the common ones found around Australias southern coastline including around Tasmania

At a glance

Habitat Under rocks, in crevices, on or near sponges, to depth of 180 m
Size Disc up to 1 cm wide, arm up to 5 cm long
Origin Native
Distribution Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Descriptions
Distribution
Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Habitat
Under rocks, in crevices, on or near sponges, to depth of 180 m
Size
Disc up to 1 cm wide, arm up to 5 cm long

Identification

A small pink brittle star with a thorny central disc, darker red markings and long, strongly spined arms

Look for:

  • Rounded, slightly swollen central disc covered with short, thorn-like spines. 
  • Small spines covering the radial shields on top of the disc. 
  • Long, slender arms with noticeably long spines along their sides. 
  • Arm spines with rough, saw-like edges rather than smooth edges. 
  • Pink colouring with darker red markings or patterns across the disc and arms. 
  • On the underside, the small mouth papillae are concentrated near the tip of each jaw.
Common Name Five-armed Brittle Star
Aliases No Known Aliases
Origin Native
Conservation Not evaluated
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumEchinodermata
ClassOphiuroidea
OrderAmphilepidida
FamilyOphiotrichidae
GenusOphiothrix
SubgenusOphiothrix (Ophiothrix)
SpeciesOphiothrix (Ophiothrix) caespitosa
Synonyms

Synonyms

Ophiothrix hartmeyeri Koehler, 1907
Ophiothrix caespitosa Lyman, 1879
References and dates
Original No original text available
Bibliography View page references
Added Sat 3 Oct 2026 @ 15:18 PM
Updated Sat 3 Oct 2026 @ 15:22 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.