
Serpent Star
Ophioderma sp.
Reef Safe
Reef Safe
Care Summary
The Serpent Star is a slender-armed, smooth brittle star that is one of the most reef-compatible echinoderms available, acting as a nimble nocturnal scavenger in reef and FOWLR tanks alike. Unlike its cousin the Green Brittle Star, the Serpent Star is not known to prey on fish and is considered safe with small fish and invertebrates, making it suitable for community reefs of 30 gallons or more. They are sensitive to acclimation and require a slow drip acclimation process, as abrupt salinity or temperature changes can cause arm loss and mortality. Feed a few times per week by dropping meaty foods like mysis, chopped shrimp, or silversides near their hiding spots, as they rely on direct feeding to stay healthy in tanks that are regularly skimmed and cleaned.
