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Clypeastroida

order of echinoderms

Quick Summary

The Clypeastroida are an order of marine invertebrates within the class Echinoidea, which is part of the phylum Echinodermata. These animals are commonly known as sand dollars. They are closely related to sea urchins and heart urchins.1

Sand dollars are characterized by their flat, disk-shaped bodies, which are well-adapted for burrowing in sandy environments. Their bodies are covered in small spines used for digging and crawling. The upper surface of a sand dollar displays a five-part radial symmetry, often appearing as a pattern of five "petals" radiating from the center. Most species measure between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in diameter and can be found in shallow coastal waters worldwide, with the exception of Europe and Antarctica.1

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