Duster Feather
Duster Feather
Feather Duster: Elegant Filter-Feeding Tubeworm
Feather Dusters (Sabellastarte sp.) are beautiful filter-feeding tubeworms that add graceful movement and natural elegance to reef aquariums. These fascinating invertebrates extend delicate, feathery crowns in various colors to capture plankton and detritus from the water column, creating a mesmerizing display while contributing to water quality and biological filtration.
Why Feather Dusters?
Beautiful feathery crowns in a variety of natural colors
Natural filter feeder that helps remove particulates and improve water clarity
Adds graceful, flowing movement to your reefscape
Reef-safe and beneficial to the aquarium ecosystem
Hardy and adaptable once properly acclimated
Fascinating feeding behavior as the crown captures food from water flow
Care Requirements:
Temperature: 72-78°F
Salinity: 1.023-1.025
pH: 8.1-8.4
Low to moderate lighting - not photosynthetic
Moderate water flow for optimal feeding (too strong will keep crown retracted)
Target feed phytoplankton, rotifers, or fine particulate foods 3-4 times per week
Stable calcium and alkalinity for tube maintenance
Placement: Position the tube securely in sand bed or rockwork where the crown can extend into water flow without being blasted. The worm will quickly retract if disturbed but will re-extend once it feels safe. Avoid placing near aggressive corals, powerheads, or in high-traffic areas.
Important Notes: Feather dusters are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters and require careful acclimation. Never expose the worm to air during acclimation or handling. The crown may retract frequently during the first few days as the worm acclimates - this is normal. In rare cases of extreme stress, the worm may abandon its tube and build a new one.
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons with stable reef parameters.
Each Feather Duster is carefully quarantined and inspected to ensure you receive a healthy specimen ready to add graceful beauty and natural filtration to your reef aquarium.
Feeding & Diet
Feeding & Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, the Pithos Crab will scavenge detritus, uneaten food, and algae — making it a natural cleanup crew member. Supplement with small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or pellets 2–3x per week if natural food sources are limited.
Care & Water Parameters
Care & Water Parameters
The Pithos Crab thrives in stable, well-maintained reef conditions. Target parameters: temperature 72–78°F, salinity 1.025–1.026 SG, pH 8.1–8.4, and alkalinity 8–12 dKH. A mature, established tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Generally considered reef-safe. The Pithos Crab coexists well with most corals and peaceful fish. Use caution with very small invertebrates or slow-moving tankmates. Provide ample rockwork and hiding spots to reduce territorial behavior.
Size & Growth
Size & Growth
Pithos Crabs are typically shipped at 0.5–1.5 inches. They are slow-growing and generally remain small, making them well-suited for nano and mid-size reef systems.
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
All livestock ships with heat or cold packs as needed and is packaged for safe transit. We stand behind a live arrival guarantee — if your animal arrives DOA, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with a clear photo. See our full DOA policy for claim details.
Share
