Dwarf Brittle Star

Amphipholis squamata

Amphipholis squamata - Dwarf Brittle Star
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Size: 4 mm disc, 3 cm total diameter

Distribution: All SA continental waters

Habitat: Rocky reef or algae beds

Depth: Intertidal to 10+ metres

Amphipholis squamata - Dwarf Brittle Star
Amphipholis squamata - Dwarf Brittle Star
Amphipholis squamata - Dwarf Brittle Star

This tiny brittle star is found all over the world, and may have been an introduction to South Australian waters. Found in various environments, it has a disc that is usually buff or grey in colour and covered in tiny scales. The radial shields are visible, forming a horseshoe shape on the edge of the disc surrounding the arms, which are covered in relatively short spines. Along with the small size, this brittle star can be identified by the distinctive radial shields. It is thought that this species is actually a species complex, consisting of many species that cannot be identified except by molecular analysis.