Size: 1/2 inch to 1 inch
- Sustainably aquacultured in TSA Farm Systems
- Highly effective cleanup crew for removing detritus, uneaten feed and scrubbing the inner spaces of live rock.
- Absolutely reef safe for fish, corals and other invertebrate cleanup crew.
- Will breed in most home aquariums
- 10 individuals enough to colonize up to 100 Gallon Aquarium
- Sustainable Live Feed for Bongo Shrimp (Phyllognathia ceratophthalma)
Introduction to Micro Brittle Stars (Reef-Safe Cleanup Crew)
Micro brittle stars (Ophiuroidea sp.) are tiny, reef-safe scavengers that play an essential role in maintaining a clean and balanced aquarium ecosystem. Found deep within live rock and substrate, these nocturnal detritivores emerge at night to consume uneaten food, organic waste, and debris, preventing waste buildup in hard-to-reach areas. At Top Shelf Aquatics, we aquaculture micro brittle stars in-house, ensuring sustainable, parasite-free specimens that adapt quickly to home reef systems.
Care Requirements
Care Level: Easy – Requires no direct feeding Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons Aquarium Setup: Thrives in established live rock and sand beds Micro brittle stars hide within rock crevices during the day, extending their thin, flexible arms at night to collect floating particles and organic matter.
Diet & Nutrition
Micro brittle stars are natural scavengers, helping to break down detritus and leftover food in reef aquariums. Diet: Scavenger – Feeds on organic waste, uneaten food, and microalgae Supplemental Foods: Crushed fish food or pellets (if needed) Finely chopped seafood or mysis shrimp (optional but beneficial) Because they efficiently consume organic matter, they do not require dedicated feeding in well-established reef tanks.
Lifespan & Growth Rate
Lifespan: 5+ years Growth Rate: Slow – Typically remains under 1 inch Micro brittle stars are self-sustaining in aquariums and will reproduce naturally, ensuring a continuous population in the tank.
Temperament & Compatibility
Temperament: Peaceful – Does not compete with other invertebrates Reef Safe? Yes – Completely safe for corals, fish, and cleanup crews These stars are excellent for all reef aquariums, as they: Do not prey on corals or fish Coexist with shrimp, snails, and other cleaners Help maintain live rock health by scrubbing inner spaces They also serve as a sustainable live feed for specialized species like Bongo Shrimp (Phyllognathia ceratophthalma).
Common Challenges & Considerations
Hides During the Day: Primarily nocturnal, so best observed at night. Slow Population Growth: While self-sustaining, they reproduce gradually. Needs Stable Conditions: Sensitive to sudden salinity or temperature swings. For best results, introduce a starter population of at least 10 individuals per 100 gallons to encourage long-term colonization.
Water Conditions
Temperature: 74-80°F dKH (Alkalinity): 8-12 pH: 8.1-8.4 Specific Gravity: 1.024-1.026 Micro brittle stars thrive in mature reef environments with plenty of rockwork and stable parameters. Why Choose Our Aquacultured Micro Brittle Stars? Unlike wild-collected specimens, our aquacultured micro brittle stars: Are sustainably bred in-house Are free of parasites or hitchhikers Adapt quickly to home aquariums Help maintain a cleaner, healthier reef ecosystem By introducing these efficient detritivores, you create a more balanced and self-sustaining reef tank with minimal maintenance.
At Top Shelf Aquatics, we take pride in ensuring your order arrives safely and in perfect condition. Here’s everything you need to know about our shipping process:
Livestock Shipping Details
- Flat Rate Shipping:
- $39.99 Out of State
- $34.99 Florida (In-State)
- Orders over $299 ship FREE!
- NO FREE Shipping during Sale Events
- Shipping Days: The calendar during checkout determines when your livestock order will arrive. Normally we ship Monday - Thursday via FedEx Priority Overnight.
Orders placed by 2 PM EST Monday - Thursday ship the same day. Orders placed after 2 PM or on Fridays will ship the next business day. - Delivery Times: Most packages arrive by 10:30 AM EST, though remote areas may experience later deliveries.
We take every measure to protect your livestock, including specialized packaging to maintain temperature and safety during transit.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy
In the rare event of a DOA, you must submit a DOA Request within 2 hours of delivery (FedEx posted time). Once submitted, we will issue a replacement or store credit for the livestock. Please note:
- Shipping costs are not included in the credit.
- Refunds are not offered for livestock or shipping.
While we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by mechanical or weather issues, rest assured we’ll do everything possible to make it right!
Reef Guard Protection Plan
For ultimate peace of mind, upgrade to our Reef Guard Protection Plan. With Reef Guard, you’ll enjoy:
- Extended Livestock Guarantee: Coverage for up to 5 days.
- Priority Resolutions: Hassle-free claims with fast resolutions.
- Weather & Shipping Delay Coverage: Includes FedEx lost packages and damages.
Shipping Restrictions
- We currently ship livestock only within the continental U.S.
- Note: Due to Hawaii state law, we are unable to ship corals to Hawaii.
Now’s the perfect time to prepare your aquarium for its new additions. Consider doing a water change and ensuring space is ready. Check out our YouTube channel for detailed care instructions for your new corals!
For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our support team. We’re here to help make your reefing journey a success!
5 Day Reef Guard
Temp-Control Box
Priority Overnight
Expert Care Support