Novodinia

Novodinia is a genus of deep-sea sea stars belonging to the family Brisingidae. These sea stars are typically found in the deep ocean, often at abyssal depths. They are characterized by their long, slender arms which radiate from a small central disc.

Characteristics:

• Arms: Members of the Novodinia genus possess a relatively small central disc from which numerous (typically 10 or more) long, fragile arms extend. These arms are used for suspension feeding.
• Feeding: Novodinia species are suspension feeders, using their long arms to capture organic particles drifting in the water column. The tube feet on the arms are often adapted for capturing and transporting food particles towards the mouth.
• Habitat: Novodinia species are exclusively marine and inhabit deep-sea environments, including the abyssal plains and seamounts.
• Skeletal Structure: Like other sea stars, Novodinia possess an endoskeleton made up of calcareous ossicles.
• Coloration: The coloration of Novodinia species can vary, but they are often reddish or orange in color. This coloration may be an adaptation to the low light conditions of their deep-sea habitat.

Taxonomy:

Novodinia is classified within the family Brisingidae, which is part of the order Brisingida. The Brisingida are distinguished by their deep-sea habitat and suspension feeding habits. The genus Novodinia includes several recognized species, each with its own unique characteristics and distribution.

Distribution:

The distribution of Novodinia species is widespread across the world's oceans, though specifically found in deep-sea habitats. Due to the challenges of deep-sea exploration, the full extent of their distribution and the exact number of species remains a topic of ongoing research.