Astroboa
Astroboa is a genus of basket stars belonging to the family Gorgonocephalidae. These echinoderms are found in tropical and subtropical waters throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Description:
Astroboa basket stars are characterized by a central disc and five highly branched arms. These arms are remarkably flexible and can be coiled tightly into a basket-like structure during the day. At night, the arms extend to feed on plankton and small organisms suspended in the water column. The branching arms are covered with numerous small hooks and spines which aid in capturing prey. The central disc is typically small in comparison to the arm span, which can reach several feet in diameter in some species. Coloration varies among species, but often includes patterns of brown, tan, and white.
Habitat and Distribution:
Astroboa species typically inhabit coral reefs, rocky outcroppings, and other areas with strong currents. They are generally nocturnal creatures, hiding among corals or rocks during the day and emerging at night to feed. Their distribution ranges across the Indo-Pacific region, from the coasts of Africa to the waters surrounding Australia and Japan.
Behavior and Ecology:
Astroboa are suspension feeders, using their branched arms to filter plankton and other small organisms from the water. They are often found attached to gorgonian corals or other sessile invertebrates, using them as perches for feeding. They are also preyed upon by various marine organisms. Reproduction in Astroboa is typically sexual, with broadcast spawning of eggs and sperm into the water column.
Classification:
Astroboa belongs to the following taxonomic hierarchy:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Ophiuroidea
- Order: Euryalida
- Family: Gorgonocephalidae
- Genus: Astroboa
Species:
The genus Astroboa contains several recognized species, including (but not limited to):
- Astroboa albatrossi
- Astroboa arctos
- Astroboa clavata
- Astroboa ernae
- Astroboa granulatus
- Astroboa nuda
- Astroboa radiata
Conservation Status:
The conservation status of Astroboa species varies, and specific assessments may be lacking for some species. Habitat degradation and climate change pose potential threats to these animals and their reef ecosystems.