Assessing arm regeneration and its effect during the reproductive cycle in the gregarious brittle-star Ophiothrix fragilis (Echinodermata)

Arm regeneration has been assessed in the field in a population of Ophiothrix fragilis situated in the Oosterschelde (Netherlands). Small individuals are less likely to be regenerating than larger ones. Few individuals have 4 or 5 arms undergoing regeneration at any new time, possibly to optimise suspension feeding. Arm regeneration has a small but significant effect on energy storage and gonadal growth.