Common Brittle Star (Ophiothrix fragilis)
Invertebrate in the family Ophiothricidae. Beginner care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Diet and feeding
Primarily feeds on detritus, biofilm, and microfauna. Benefits from occasional supplementation with small amounts of pulverized macroalgae or liquid phytoplankton.
Origin and habitat
Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean, from the British Isles and Norway southward to the coasts of West Africa.
Keeper notes
• Minimum 20 gallon tank • Maintain temperature 50–75°F with moderate to strong water flow • Prefers moderate to high salinity (1.023–1.026 SG) and pH 8.0–8.3 • Nocturnal scavenger; provide hiding places and feed detritus, small particles, and occasional meaty foods • Sensitive to copper and sudden water parameter changes; acclimate slowly
Log Common Brittle Star in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Common Brittle Star alongside everything else in your reef.
