Amphiodia occidentalis

The Burrowing Brittle Star

Phylum Echinodermata
Class Ophiuroidea
Order Ophiurina
Suborder Gnathophiurina
Family Amphiuridae
Genus Amphiodia
Species occidentalis

Description: Disk diameter 6 to 10 mm; arm length up to 20 cm; color is gray to tan with a dark spot at the base of each ray; disk is smooth without spines or plates; rays are long and slender and break easily.

Habitat: Found buried in muddy sand at low tide.

Natural History: As the name implies this sea star is found buried deeply and can often be found in large groups. It is also common where eel grass beds are located. Though the long thin arms are fragile, they regenerate quickly. Broken arms are sometimes mistaken for annelid worms.