Starfish of some kind?

[designbysue]

Dive leader pointed these out - what are they?

 

[KeithG]

I believe those are small young Basket stars. Mature basket stars are much bigger and look like a ball of rubber bands during the day.

they are very light sensitive and are night filter feeders. They are generally found at the top edge of the wall at night. During the day then curl up into tight balls or curl up around coral.

It is fun to use your light to feed them blood worms.

---------- Post added November 20th, 2013 at 12:53 AM ----------

They look very different at night

Basket Star | www.kengiffen.com
Basket Star | www.kengiffen.com

http://www.kengiffen.com/images/belize-2011/basket-star-0

---------- Post added November 20th, 2013 at 09:27 AM ----------

I think I am off by a bit. I included links to pictures of giant basket star.

I think you have sea rod basket star which is much much smaller.

 

[designbysue]

Looks like

sea rod basket star is the correct answer - thanks​

 

[Karibelle]

whatever they are, they're awesome!

 

[drbill]

Here is an image of an adult basket star (not the same species) feeding at night in the Bahamas and then withdrawing into a ball due to my video lights:

 

[designbysue]

I have often seen the basket stars both at night and in the day (they are beautiful at either time). They are interesting to watch when they feed. If there is anything in the water when I pass one I try to do so.