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Deep Med feather star (Leptometra phalangium)

Key facts

Scientific name
Leptometra phalangium
Common name
Deep Med feather star
Category
Echinoderms
Family
Antedonidae
Genus
Leptometra
Size
5–15 cm
Depth
30–700 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
rocky-reef
Behaviours
benthic, filter-feeder
Ocean zones
Caribbean, East Atlantic, Eastern Pacific, Mediterranean

Description

Leptometra phalangium reaches 15 cm arms. Deep Mediterranean crinoid (Echinodermata) with small central body with 10 very elongated thin arms (hence phalangium, like phalanges) yellow-white to light beige. Lives from 30 to 700 m on deep rocky drop-offs and coralligenous of Mediterranean, sometimes in dense aggregations. Suspensivore filter feeder. Deeper and more discreet than A. mediterranea, rarer photo subject reserved to technical dives beyond 40 m.

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Deep Med feather star?
Deep Med feather star (Leptometra phalangium) reaches 5–15 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Deep Med feather star?
Deep Med feather star is found between 30–700 m deep.
Is the Deep Med feather star dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Deep Med feather star?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Deep Med feather star?
Found in: Caribbean, East Atlantic, Eastern Pacific, Mediterranean.

Other species in the family Antedonidae

  • Antedon mediterranea - Mediterranean feather star
  • Antedon bifida - Rosy feather star

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 124226)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 9773472)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia