Brittle Star - Black/Pink

The Brittle star is usually jet black or light pink, sometimes with light and dark banding. Its arms are covered in course bristles. It gets its name from the fact that, if threatened, its arms may fall off or break into pieces. It spends most of its time hiding inside the rock with its arms sticking out, waiting for some fish food to drift by. It is an efficient scavenger and can clean the rocks of leftover food and detritus. It is completely reef safe and does not bother corals. It is safe with fish, although very small sleeping fish may occasionally be at risk. Because it eagerly consumes fish food it is one of the easiest starfish to keep.

Echinoderms such as starfish are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums of at least 6 months to ensure water stability. It grows up to 10 inches and needs an aquarium at least 50 gallons.