Green Brittle Star

Green Brittle Star: Efficient Nocturnal Scavenger

Green Brittle Stars (Ophiarachna incrassata) are striking and highly efficient scavengers known for their vibrant green coloration and long, flexible arms. These nocturnal echinoderms are exceptional at consuming detritus, uneaten food, and organic waste, making them valuable cleanup crew members. However, they require careful consideration due to their opportunistic feeding behavior.

Why Green Brittle Stars?

• Exceptional scavenging ability - highly efficient at removing detritus and waste
• Striking bright green coloration with distinctive banding
• Primarily nocturnal - most active at night when hunting for food
• Hardy and adaptable once acclimated
• Helps maintain water quality by removing organic waste
• Fascinating to observe during nighttime reef viewing

Care Requirements:

• Temperature: 72-78°F
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Provide rockwork with caves and crevices for daytime hiding
• Target feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week (mysis shrimp, chopped seafood)
• Moderate water flow

IMPORTANT CAUTION: Green Brittle Stars are opportunistic predators and may prey on small fish, shrimp, and other small tank inhabitants, especially at night or if not adequately fed. They are best suited for fish-only systems or tanks without small, slow-moving fish and ornamental shrimp. Regular feeding is essential to minimize predatory behavior. This species is NOT recommended for reef tanks with small gobies, blennies, or ornamental shrimp.

Additional Notes: Green Brittle Stars are sensitive to sudden salinity changes and require careful acclimation. They may drop arms if stressed but can regenerate them over time. Handle with care as their spines can be sharp.

Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons.

Each Green Brittle Star is carefully quarantined and inspected to ensure you receive a healthy, active specimen. Please carefully consider tank compatibility before adding this efficient but opportunistic scavenger to your aquarium.