VU

Ophiactis balli

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Ophiactis balli faces significant pressure from bottom trawling and dredging activities that physically damage the seafloor habitats where this brittle star resides. Climate change-induced ocean acidification poses an additional threat by weakening the calcium carbonate structures essential for its skeletal integrity. The species' limited distribution and specific habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances in its marine environment.

Threat summary

Habitat

This brittle star inhabits soft sediment bottoms and muddy substrates in marine environments, typically found at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to deeper continental shelf areas. It prefers areas with fine particulate matter where it can burrow and feed on organic detritus.

MARINE· major

Threatened in Canada

VU

Lepiota echinella

Unknown
EN

Nymphaea loriana

Declining
EN

Lake Lamprey

Entosphenus macrostoma

Unknown
VU

Paddlefish

Polyodon spathula

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Ophiactis balli classified as Vulnerable?
Ophiactis balli is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Ophiactis balli faces significant pressure from bottom trawling and dredging activities that physically damage the seafloor habitats where this brittle star resides. Climate change-induced ocean acidification poses an additional threat by weakening the calcium carbonate structures essential for its skeletal integrity. The species' limited distribution and specific habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances in its marine environment.
Where does Ophiactis balli live?
Ophiactis balli occurs in Canada, Congo - Kinshasa, Denmark, France, Iceland, and Ireland (plus 10 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ophiactis balli?
The main threats to Ophiactis balli are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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