Benthopectinidae

Benthopectinidae is a family of sea stars containing at least 75 species in eight genera. It is the only family in the monotypic order Notomyotida.

These asteroids are deep-sea dwelling and have flexible arms. The inner dorso-lateral surface of the arms contain characteristic longitudinal muscle bands. Eight genera of deep-water species make up the majority of the family benthopectinidae, and many of its members are expected to have a greater range than is currently recognized.

Taxonomy

Nine genera are recognized:

• Acontiaster<small> Döderlein, 1921</small>
• Benthopecten<small> Verrill, 1884</small>
• Cheiraster<small> Studer, 1883</small>
• Gaussaster<small> Ludwig, 1910</small>
• Myonotus<small> Fisher, 1911</small>
• Nearchaster<small> Fisher, 1911</small>
• Pectinaster<small> Perrier, 1885</small>
• † Plesiastropecten <small>Peyer, 1944 </small>
• Pontaster<small> Sladen, 1885</small>

References