Unveiling the Underwater Basket Star

South Africa’s coastline is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity, and among its fascinating inhabitants are the enigmatic basket stars. They can only be spotted along the coast; from the Cape Peninsula to Algoa Bay, making this a common sighting in Plettenberg Bay.  These unique echinoderms, part of the Ophiuroidea class, are often overlooked but play a vital role in the underwater ecosystem.

Basket stars are characterized by their intricate, branching arms that can extend up to a meter in length. Unlike their starfish cousins, they possess long, flexible arms that allow them to capture food more effectively. These arms are covered in tiny tube feet that help them grasp and trap small prey like plankton and detritus. When they are not feeding, they pull their tendrils and arms towards their central disk for their protection.  Averse to light, basket stars are mostly nocturnal and are mainly active at night.

Basket stars thrive in various marine environments, from rocky reefs to deeper ocean floors. They are often found at depths ranging from 30 to 200 meters, where they weave their arms into complex shapes, creating a stunning display that resembles a basket—hence their name.  By feeding on organic material and small crustaceans & plankton, they help recycle nutrients in the ocean.

Images supplied by Peter Berndt & ProDive