Common name: savigny's brittle star

General information

The Daisy Brittle Star, Ophiactis savignyi, is a small and fascinating invertebrate commonly found in the reef aquarium hobby. This species is known for its ability to reproduce asexually by splitting its central disc, which allows for rapid population growth under favorable conditions. They are nocturnal creatures, often hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed.

Care

Ophiactis savignyi is a hardy species that can adapt to a variety of tank conditions. They prefer a tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate where they can hide and search for detritus and uneaten food. They are excellent scavengers and help maintain a clean aquarium environment.

Reproduction

This species is unique in that it can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction occurs through fission, where the central disc splits and each half regenerates the missing arms. Sexual reproduction is less common in the aquarium setting but can occur with the release of gametes into the water column.

Symbiosis

While Ophiactis savignyi does not have any notable symbiotic relationships in the same way clownfish do with anemones, they are an integral part of the clean-up crew in a reef tank, working alongside other invertebrates to keep the substrate clean.

Habitat

In the wild, Ophiactis savignyi is found in a range of habitats from shallow reefs to deeper waters. They are widespread across the Indo-Pacific region and are known for their resilience and adaptability to different environmental conditions.