Brittle Star Apr 2026

Some species, like Ophiocoma wendtii , use light-sensitive crystals on their skin to "see" their surroundings without actual eyes.

They are essential ecosystem engineers, stirring up seafloor sediment and recycling nutrients.

Meet the —the agile, "brainless," and incredibly resilient cousin of the starfish. While they might look similar to sea stars at first glance, these marine invertebrates are in a class all their own, known for their rapid snake-like movement and unique survival tactics. 🌊 Quick Facts

Class Ophiuroidea (from the Greek "ophis" for snake and "ura" for tail).

They can voluntarily shed their arms (a process called autotomy ) to escape predators and grow them back later.