Common name: Brittle Star

General information

The Brittle Star, Ophiura albida, is a species of brittle star often found in the marine aquarium trade. These invertebrates are known for their distinctive long, slender arms which they use for locomotion and capturing food. They are nocturnal creatures, hiding during the day and becoming more active at night.

Care

Ophiura albida requires a tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They are scavengers, feeding on detritus and small organisms within the aquarium. It's important to ensure that the tank is well-cycled and has a stable environment, as brittle stars can be sensitive to rapid changes in water quality.

Reproduction

In the wild, Ophiura albida reproduces by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, breeding is less common but can occur if the environment is stable and there are multiple individuals present.

Habitat

Ophiura albida is found in a range of marine environments from shallow waters to depths of several hundred meters. They prefer sandy or muddy substrates where they can bury themselves. In the aquarium, they can be beneficial as part of the clean-up crew, helping to maintain substrate cleanliness.