Interactive identification key to all brittle star families (Echinodermata; Ophiuroidea) leads to revised morphological descriptions

Ophiuroidea is the largest class among extant echinoderms, with over 2000 described species assigned to 33 families. Here, first identification key recently revised classification was developed, and morphological descriptions were derived from it, expanding previous short diagnoses. The built by analyzing internal external skeletal characters of predominantly type each family, including at least two mutually exclusive attributes per family. Various numeric multistate used create a traditional as well an interactive using DELTA Xper software programs­. Illustrations (SEM digital photos) are included in facilitate assessment character states users. Not only it families, according proposed new examined species, but this also assists users understanding family level taxonomy brittle stars. allows be added, when more will have been analyzed, without need reconfigure complete (as may necessary conventional keys).