Knobby Fancy Brittle Sea Star

The Knobby Fancy Brittle Sea Star (Ophiomastix annulosa) is a peaceful invertebrate species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking knobby texture, intricate arm patterns, vibrant coloration, and graceful movement.

Males typically display slightly more pronounced knobs along their arms, while females and juveniles are usually smaller and smoother in appearance. They reach about 6–8 inches in diameter and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons. Provide a fine sandbed, ample live rock for grazing, hiding spots, and open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4) and a secure lid, as brittle stars can sometimes escape. Their diet consists of detritus, small invertebrates, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and finely chopped meaty foods, and with proper care, this species makes a unique and captivating addition to reef and marine aquariums.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.