Family

Common name: Brittle Stars

Scientific name: Ophiodermatidae

Ophiodermatidae is a family of echinoderms commonly known as brittle stars or serpent stars. Members of this family are characterized by their long, slender arms which are distinct from the central disc. They are known for their ability to regenerate lost limbs and their nocturnal behavior. Brittle stars are detritivores, feeding on decaying matter and plankton. They play a crucial role in the aquarium by helping to maintain a clean substrate and providing a natural form of waste management. They are generally reef-safe and can coexist with a wide variety of tank mates.

  1. A Green Brittle Star (Ophiarachna incrassata)
    Common name: Green Brittle Star
    Scientific name: Ophiarachna affinis
  2. Ophiarachna incrassata on the sand
    Common name: Green Brittle Star
    Scientific name: Ophiarachna incrassata
  3. Common name: harlequin brittle star
    Scientific name: Ophioderma appressa
  4. Common name: Short-spined brittle star
    Scientific name: Ophioderma brevispina
  5. Common name: Red Brittle Star
    Scientific name: Ophioderma phoenia
  6. ruby Brittle star
    Common name: ruby brittle star
    Scientific name: Ophioderma rubicunda