Benthopectinidae | |
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Benthopecten species | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Echinodermata |
Class: | Asteroidea |
Superorder: | Valvatacea |
Order: | Notomyotida Ludwig, 1910 |
Family: | Benthopectinidae Verrill, 1899 |
Genera | |
8, see text | |
Synonyms | |
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Benthopectinidae is a family of sea stars containing at least 75 species in eight genera.[1] 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.[2] 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.[3]