Common name: Green Brittle Star

General Information

The Green Brittle Star, scientifically known as Ophiarachna incrassata, is a fascinating echinoderm often found in the marine aquarium trade. Its intricate, star-like appearance and unique movements make it a captivating addition to many aquariums. This species is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits coral reefs and sandy substrates.

Green Brittle Stars are known for their long, flexible arms that can reach impressive lengths. These arms are covered in small spines, giving them a distinctive appearance. Despite their delicate look, these arms are quite strong and used for locomotion and capturing food.

Care

Green Brittle Stars are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for aquarists with some experience. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters. A sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots created by live rock are ideal for mimicking their natural habitat.

These sea stars are nocturnal, often hiding during the day and becoming active at night. They play a beneficial role in the aquarium by scavenging detritus and uneaten food, helping to maintain water quality.

Diet and Feeding

As opportunistic feeders, Green Brittle Stars have a varied diet. In the wild, they consume detritus, small invertebrates, and organic matter. In captivity, they should be fed a diet that includes meaty foods such as chopped shrimp, fish, and marine pellets.

Feed them a few times a week, ensuring the food reaches them at the bottom of the tank. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so it's important to monitor their intake.

Behavior and Compatibility

Green Brittle Stars are generally peaceful but can exhibit predatory behavior if underfed. They are known to prey on small fish and invertebrates if not adequately fed, so caution is advised when housing them with smaller tank mates.

They are compatible with a variety of fish and invertebrates, provided they are well-fed. However, it's best to avoid housing them with very small or slow-moving species that might become prey.

Health and Common Issues

Green Brittle Stars are hardy and can live for several years in captivity with proper care. They are sensitive to changes in water quality, so maintaining stable conditions is crucial.

Signs of stress or poor health include loss of arms or a refusal to eat. Regular monitoring and maintenance of water quality, along with a balanced diet, will help prevent these issues.

Habitat

In their natural habitat, Green Brittle Stars are found in coral reefs and sandy areas throughout the Indo-Pacific. They prefer environments with plenty of hiding spots and a sandy substrate where they can bury themselves. Replicating these conditions in the aquarium will help them thrive.