Red Brittle Sea Star

The Invertebrate Red Brittle Sea Star (Ophiomastix sp.) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its brilliant red coloration, long slender arms, graceful movement, and excellent scavenging abilities.

Males typically display slightly longer, more active arms and may roam more frequently in search of food, while females/juveniles tend to remain more reclusive, staying within the rockwork or substrate until feeding times.

They reach about 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) in arm span and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50 gallons. Provide plenty of live rock with crevices for hiding, a sandy or rubble substrate, and stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). Although they don’t jump, a secure lid is still recommended to prevent other tank inhabitants from escaping and to maintain stable conditions.

Diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped marine meats, detritus, and naturally occurring microfauna, supplemented with occasional sinking pellets. With proper care, this striking and hardy sea star makes a standout addition to reef and peaceful community aquariums, aiding in cleanup while adding vibrant color and movement.

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.