Sponge Brittle Sea Star

Sponge Brittle Sea Star suits a carefully planned aquarium with sheltered surfaces and a dependable supply of fine food particles. Sponge-associated brittle stars extend their arms from cover to collect food from nearby water or surfaces. Their delicate arms should never be used to pull them from a refuge.

Food delivery matters as much as food quantity. Keep suitable fine particulate food available where the arms reach, and observe collection rather than assuming a large piece of fish food will be eaten. Water movement should carry particles past the feeding position without continually dislodging the animal. Remove accumulating waste and keep water conditions stable.

The sponge association does not mean the star eats its host. Confirm whether the supplied animal needs a particular living refuge and how it is being fed. A new, very clean aquarium is a poor starting point without a planned feeding routine.