Tiger Brittle Sea Star
(Ophiolepsis / Ophioderma sp.)
Ophiolepsis Sea Stars are commonly found in marine environments, often in shallow coastal waters and intertidal zones. They inhabit various substrates, including sandy or muddy bottoms, rocks, and coral reefs. They are generally more abundant in areas with adequate shelter, as they can hide in crevices, under rocks, or within coral formations. They are primarily detritivores and scavengers feeding on decaying organic matter, algae, small organic particles, and other debris present in the water column or on the ocean floor. They use their slender arms to capture and manipulate food particles, which are then transported to their mouth. It's essential to avoid using copper-based treatments in a tank with invertebrates, as it can harm them. Always follow the recommended guidelines for medication use in marine aquariums.
Ophioderma Sea Stars are often known as Serpent or Brittle Sea Stars. They are sometimes seen in the aquarium trade. Ophioderma Sea Star color can vary depending on their environment but are often brown, reddish-brown, or gray with some having patterns and markings on their arms. They can grow up to 12".
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Easy
- Behavior: Social Agressive
- Diet: Frozen Food Live Food
- Habitat: Reef
- Light: Nocturnal