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.
- Common name: Green Brittle StarScientific name: Ophiarachna affinis
- Common name: Green Brittle StarScientific name: Ophiarachna incrassata
- Common name: harlequin brittle starScientific name: Ophioderma appressa
- Common name: Short-spined brittle starScientific name: Ophioderma brevispina
- Common name: Red Brittle StarScientific name: Ophioderma phoenia
- Common name: ruby brittle starScientific name: Ophioderma rubicunda