Zebra Brittle Starfish

Zebra Brittle Starfish (Ophiolepis superba)

The Zebra Brittle Starfish is a stunning and practical addition to any marine aquarium. Known for its distinctive banded arms and active nocturnal behavior, this species offers both beauty and function. As a highly efficient scavenger, it plays a vital role in keeping your tank clean by consuming leftover food and detritus.

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Zebra Brittle Star typically reaches a central disc size of around 8–10 cm, with arm spans up to 25 cm. It is peaceful and reef safe, making it suitable for a wide variety of community reef setups. While it remains hidden during the day, it becomes active at night, emerging to forage across the substrate and rockwork.

This species thrives in aquariums of at least 20 gallons, although larger tanks of 50 gallons or more are ideal to provide sufficient space and hiding areas. It requires stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22–27°C, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, and specific gravity from 1.023 to 1.025. A soft, sandy substrate combined with live rock will best replicate its natural environment and support its scavenging habits.

Feeding is straightforward. While the Zebra Brittle Star will consume detritus and uneaten food on its own, it's beneficial to supplement its diet with finely chopped meaty foods like shrimp or clam a few times per week. This ensures it receives adequate nutrition, especially in cleaner systems where natural waste is limited.

This starfish offers several benefits beyond aesthetics. It helps keep the substrate aerated and clean, contributes to biodiversity, and requires minimal care once acclimated. However, it's important to acclimate the Zebra Brittle Star slowly using a drip method, as it is sensitive to changes in water parameters. Additionally, avoid housing it with large predatory fish such as triggers or puffers, which may view its arms as a snack.

Overall, the Zebra Brittle Starfish is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a hardy, attractive, and beneficial invertebrate for their reef tank.