Antedon

Antedon is a genus of feather stars, which are marine invertebrates belonging to the class Crinoidea. These elegant, star-like creatures are closely related to sea lilies and starfish but possess distinctive, elongated arms that resemble feathers, earning them the common name "feather star." Antedon species are commonly found in temperate and tropical coastal waters around the world, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Pacific Ocean.

Feather stars exhibit a unique mode of locomotion, using their tube feet and arms to crawl along the ocean floor or attach themselves to substrates like rocks or coral. They are suspension feeders, capturing plankton and organic particles from the water using specialized structures called pinnules on their arms. Their bodies are typically disc-shaped with a central mouth surrounded by multiple branching arms, which can number anywhere from five to over a hundred, depending on the species.

Antedon species vary in size, generally measuring between 5 and 20 centimeters in diameter, though some can grow larger. They reproduce sexually, with external fertilization occurring in the water column. Larvae develop into juvenile crinoids before settling onto a substrate and metamorphosing into their adult form. Feather stars are often found in shallow waters, from the intertidal zone down to depths of around 100 meters, though some species inhabit deeper environments.

These creatures play a role in their ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as prey for various marine organisms. While not typically considered commercially valuable, Antedon species are sometimes collected for aquarium display due to their striking appearance. Conservation efforts are important, as some populations face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.