Common name: Feather star

General information

Feather Stars, specifically the species Stephanometra tenuipinna, are fascinating echinoderms that belong to the class Crinoidea. They are known for their ornate, feather-like arms which they use for suspension feeding. These invertebrates are often sought after by advanced aquarists for their unique appearance and behavior.

While not as commonly kept as other marine organisms, Stephanometra tenuipinna can be a captivating addition to a well-established reef aquarium. They are typically found in deeper waters and are known for their ability to swim by coordinated movements of their arms.

Care

Caring for Feather Stars requires a mature tank with stable water conditions and low to moderate flow to allow them to capture food particles effectively. They are filter feeders and thrive on a diet of plankton and suspended organic particles. It is essential to provide a varied diet and ensure that fine particulate food is available for them to capture with their feathery arms.

Reproduction

In the wild, Stephanometra tenuipinna reproduces by releasing sperm and eggs into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, sexual reproduction is rare, but some hobbyists have reported success with inducing spawning by mimicking natural environmental cues.

Symbiosis

While Stephanometra tenuipinna does not have the same level of symbiotic relationships as some other marine species, they can coexist with a variety of reef inhabitants. They are generally peaceful and can share space with non-predatory fish and corals.

Habitat

Stephanometra tenuipinna is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. They inhabit various reef environments, often attaching themselves to substrates in areas with adequate water flow to facilitate their suspension feeding.