Benthopectinidae
| Benthopectinidae | |
|---|---|
| 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 | |
| |
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.