Common name: Brittle Star

General information

The Brittle Star, scientifically known as Ophiocoma scolopendrina, is a species of echinoderm that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its scavenging abilities and unique appearance. These invertebrates have a central disc and long, flexible arms that allow them to move swiftly across the substrate. They are nocturnal creatures, often hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed.

Care

Brittle Stars are relatively easy to care for, requiring a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They are detritivores, feeding on decaying matter and leftover food, which helps keep the tank clean. However, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of tank maintenance.

Reproduction

In the wild, Brittle Stars reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, they are more likely to reproduce through fragmentation, where a part of an arm detaches and regenerates into a new individual. This can be an interesting process to observe in a home aquarium.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships in the same way as clownfish and anemones, Brittle Stars can coexist with a variety of tank mates. They are generally peaceful and can be part of a diverse cleanup crew in a reef tank.

Habitat

Ophiocoma scolopendrina is found in a range of marine environments, from shallow coral reefs to deeper waters. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment. In the aquarium, they can adapt to various depths as long as their basic needs are met.