Serpent Starfish invert

Serpent Starfish (Ophioderma spp.) Care Guide
The Serpent Starfish is a fascinating and beneficial invertebrate that serves as a natural scavenger, helping to keep the aquarium clean by consuming detritus and uneaten food. These starfish are hardy, fast-moving, and come in various colors, including brown, red, green, and tan.

Habitat & Behavior
Found in tropical reef environments, often hiding in rock crevices during the day.
Nocturnal—more active at night but may emerge during feeding times.
Moves with long, flexible arms, unlike traditional starfish.
Reef-safe but can become opportunistic if not well-fed.
Aquarium Requirements
Tank Size: 30+ gallons (larger tanks are better for stability).
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel (does not require deep sand like the Sand Sifting Starfish).
Live Rock: Essential for hiding spots and natural grazing.
Water Flow: Moderate (too strong may prevent it from foraging).
Lighting: Adaptable to all reef lighting conditions.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72-78°F
Salinity: 1.024-1.026
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm (very sensitive to poor water quality)
Nitrates: <10 ppm (low levels preferred)
Diet & Feeding
Natural diet: Detritus, uneaten food, and small organisms in the substrate.
Supplemental feeding: Offer mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, sinking pellets, and marine-based frozen foods 2-3 times per week.
Target feeding is recommended to prevent them from scavenging tankmates if food is scarce.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
? Reef-safe with caution—can be opportunistic if underfed.
? Compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates.
? Avoid aggressive fish like triggers, puffers, and large wrasses—they may nip at the starfish.
? Do not keep with small, slow-moving fish or shrimp—a hungry Serpent Star may attempt to catch them.

Acclimation Process
Turn off tank lights to reduce stress.
Float the sealed bag in the aquarium for 15-20 minutes to equalize temperature.
Drip acclimate slowly over 1-2 hours to prevent osmotic shock.
Gently place the starfish onto the sand or rock—do not expose it to air.
Monitor closely for the first few days to ensure normal activity.
Special Considerations
? Sensitive to rapid salinity and parameter changes—stable conditions are crucial.
? Fast-moving and more active than other starfish—may quickly emerge when food is present.
? Do not expose to air during handling—this can cause stress and internal damage.
? May outcompete slower scavengers—ensure all tank mates receive adequate food.