Brittle Star (Ophiocoma sp.) Care Guide

A nocturnal scavenger with long, flexible arms that hides in rockwork during the day. Excellent cleanup crew member that consumes detritus, uneaten food, and organic waste.

Overview

Ophiocoma sp. is a species in the family Ophiocomidae. A nocturnal scavenger with long, flexible arms that hides in rockwork during the day. Excellent cleanup crew member that consumes detritus, uneaten food, and organic waste. Arms can break off if grabbed but regenerate. Completely reef-safe and beneficial for tank hygiene.

Taxonomy

Family: Ophiocomidae
Genus: Ophiocoma
Scientific name: Ophiocoma sp.
Other names: Serpent Star
Origin: Indo-Pacific, Caribbean

Habitat

Ophiocoma species are brittle stars of Indo-Pacific and Caribbean reefs, with slender flexible arms used for fast movement. They are detritivores and scavengers that hide in rockwork by day and emerge to clear leftover food; generally reef-safe.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 5-15 cm
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as detritivore. Recommended feeding frequency: scavenger. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Most Reef Fish, Corals
Avoid with: Triggerfish, Pufferfish

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.