Brittle Star

Superpower

Whips its snaky arms to scuttle away fast, shedding one if a predator grabs it.

At a glance

Size

typically 10 cm, up to 30 cm

Lifespan

3–5 years

Depth

1–40 m

Habitat

Under rocks, in crevices and inside sponges.

Diet

Detritus and plankton gathered with its arms.

Can I eat it?

No — this one is not eaten.

Fun facts

• •Unlike true starfish, its thin arms move like snakes.
• •It can drop an arm to escape, then regrow it.
• •Many hide by day and come out to feed at night.