Serpent Brittle Starfish: The Agile Custodians of Your Reef Aquarium
Reef aquariums offer a mesmerising view into the underwater world, teeming with life and colour. Among the many intriguing inhabitants that can enhance the beauty and health of a reef tank, the serpent brittle starfish (Ophiomyxa spp.) stands out. These agile invertebrates are known for their slender, snake-like arms and remarkable ability to navigate the complex environments of reef tanks. This guide will delve into the characteristics of serpent brittle starfish, their natural habitats, and how to care for them effectively in a reef aquarium.
What Are Serpent Brittle Starfish?
Serpent brittle starfish are a type of echinoderm related to sea stars and sea urchins. They are characterised by their long, flexible arms that radiate from a central disc. These arms are covered with small spines, which aid in movement and feeding. Serpent brittle starfish are nocturnal and primarily come out at night to forage, making them an intriguing and active part of the reef ecosystem.
Why Keep Serpent Brittle Starfish in a Reef Aquarium?
Serpent brittle starfish offer several benefits to reef aquariums:
1. Natural Cleanup Crew: They help maintain a clean tank by scavenging for leftover food, detritus, and dead organisms, reducing the buildup of organic waste.
2. Interesting Behaviour: Their nocturnal activities and graceful movements add a dynamic element to the tank, providing continuous interest and observation opportunities.
3. Biodiversity: Including serpent brittle starfish in a reef tank enhances its biodiversity, contributing to a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.
Setting Up the Ideal Environment
Creating a suitable environment for serpent brittle starfish is essential for their health and well-being in a reef aquarium. Here are key considerations:
Tank Size and Setup
• Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended to provide ample space for movement and foraging. Larger tanks with extensive rockwork and crevices are ideal.
• Live Rock and Substrate: Include plenty of live rock to offer hiding spots and surfaces for the starfish to explore. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is beneficial for their burrowing behaviour.
Water Parameters
• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 72-78°F.
• Salinity: Keep salinity levels between 1.023 and 1.025 specific gravity.
• pH: Ensure the pH is between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Nitrates and Phosphates: Regularly monitor and keep nitrates and phosphates at low levels to ensure optimal water quality.
Lighting
• Moderate lighting is usually sufficient for serpent brittle starfish. Since they are nocturnal, intense lighting is not necessary, but proper lighting is essential for the health of photosynthetic organisms in the tank.
Water Movement
• Gentle to moderate water flow is ideal. It should be strong enough to keep the tank’s water well-oxygenated and to help distribute food particles, but not so strong that it disrupts the starfish’s movement.
Feeding Serpent Brittle Starfish
In the wild, serpent brittle starfish are scavengers, feeding on a variety of organic matter found on the ocean floor. In a reef aquarium, their diet can be supplemented with:
• Meaty Foods: Offer small pieces of shrimp, fish, or other meaty foods. Place the food near the starfish or in its path to ensure it can access it.
• Commercial Foods: Specialised invertebrate foods and sinking pellets can also be used to provide additional nutrition.
• Natural Foraging: Ensure there is a steady supply of natural detritus and organic matter in the tank for the starfish to consume.
Regularly feeding the tank with these supplements can help ensure that the serpent brittle starfish receive adequate nutrition.
Compatibility with Other Tank Inhabitants
When introducing serpent brittle starfish to a reef tank, consider their compatibility with other tank inhabitants:
Fish
• Safe Choices: Many reef-safe fish, such as clownfish, gobies, and tangs, generally ignore serpent brittle starfish, making them excellent tank mates.
• Potential Issues: Avoid fish species that may prey on or disturb the starfish, such as certain triggerfish or pufferfish.
Corals and Invertebrates
• Corals: Serpent brittle starfish are generally safe with most corals. Their presence does not harm corals and can contribute to a balanced ecosystem.
• Other Invertebrates: They can coexist with various invertebrates, such as snails, shrimp, and non-aggressive crabs. Monitor interactions to ensure peaceful coexistence.
Behavioural and Ecological Observations
Serpent brittle starfish exhibit a range of fascinating behaviours that can be observed in a reef tank setting. These behaviours include:
Foraging and Scavenging
• Serpent brittle starfish spend much of their time moving through the substrate and rockwork, using their flexible arms to capture and consume organic matter. This constant activity helps keep the tank clean and balanced.
Nocturnal Activity
• These starfish are primarily nocturnal, becoming more active during the night. Observing their nighttime behaviour can provide valuable insights into their natural habits and ecological roles.
Arm Regeneration
• Like many echinoderms, serpent brittle starfish have the remarkable ability to regenerate lost arms. This regenerative capability is not only fascinating but also a testament to their resilience and adaptability.
Challenges and Considerations
Keeping serpent brittle starfish in a reef tank comes with challenges and considerations:
Sensitivity to Water Quality
• Water Quality: Serpent brittle starfish are sensitive to changes in water quality. Poor water conditions can cause stress and lead to health issues. Regular water changes and monitoring are essential.
Predation and Damage
• Predation: Ensure that no aggressive fish or invertebrates are present that may harm or prey on the starfish.
• Physical Damage: Handle the starfish with care to avoid damage during tank maintenance.
Feeding Requirements
• Consistent Feeding: Providing a steady supply of detritus and other food sources is critical for the health of these starfish. Regular feeding with appropriate supplements is necessary to maintain their nutritional needs.
Selecting the Right Serpent Brittle Starfish
When choosing a serpent brittle starfish for your reef tank, consider the following factors:
Appearance
• Look for a starfish with healthy, intact arms and no signs of damage or stress. Healthy starfish will actively move through the tank and respond to stimuli.
Source
• Purchase serpent brittle starfish from reputable sources that provide healthy, well-maintained specimens. Avoid starfish that show signs of illness or poor health.
Tank Conditions
• Ensure that your tank conditions are stable and suitable for serpent brittle starfish before introducing them. This includes maintaining optimal water parameters and providing ample hiding spots and foraging areas.
