The viper tail starfish is a unique and intriguing invertebrate for home aquariums. These creatures have a distinctive appearance and can enhance the visual appeal of a marine environment.
Meet the Viper Tail Starfish
The viper tail starfish, also known as brittle stars or serpent stars, are echinoderms (Ophiuroidea) characterized by a small central disc and five long, slender, flexible arms. These arms, up to 24 inches, give them their common name due to snake-like movements. While many species are brown, white, or cream, some display vibrant colors like red, blue, yellow, or green.
These invertebrates inhabit the sea floor, often hidden in rocky crevices or burrowing in sand beds worldwide. They are primarily nocturnal, foraging at night. They can swiftly move their arms for locomotion and regenerate lost limbs as a defense mechanism.
Aquarium Care for Viper Tail Starfish
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a viper tail starfish, allowing ample space for movement and foraging. An established, mature aquarium is preferable, as these invertebrates are sensitive to water parameter fluctuations. Plenty of live rock and crevices should be included for secure hiding spots.
Stable water parameters are important for viper tail starfish health. Maintain:
Temperature: 72-79°F (22-27°C)
Salinity: 1.021-1.025 specific gravity (32-35 ppt)
pH: 8.1-8.4
Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
Nitrates: below 20 ppm (ammonia and nitrites at zero)
A sand bed is beneficial, allowing certain species to burrow and sift for food. Viper tail starfish are detritivores, actively scavenging for leftover food, detritus, and decaying organic matter. While they contribute to tank cleanliness, supplementary feeding is often necessary. Target-feed small meaty foods like clams, krill, or shrimp a couple of times weekly.
Most viper tail starfish are reef-safe and compatible with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. However, caution is advised with very small, slow-moving fish, which could become prey for larger specimens, or with aggressive fish that might nip at their arms. The green brittle starfish (Ophiarachna incrassata) is an exception, as it can be predatory and may threaten smaller tank inhabitants.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Monitor your viper tail starfish for signs of distress like lack of movement, significant arm loss, discoloration, or a shriveled appearance. These symptoms often indicate environmental stressors.
Common causes include poor water quality, insufficient food, or sudden shifts in water parameters. Aggressive tank mates can also lead to stress and injury. Inadequate acclimation to a new tank can trigger distress.
Addressing these problems involves practical steps. Partial water changes improve water quality and stabilize parameters. If food scarcity is suspected, increase target feeding of meaty foods. Isolate the starfish if harassed by aggressive tank mates. Ensure slow, careful acclimation when introducing a new starfish.
Is a Viper Tail Starfish Right for Your Tank?
Viper tail starfish offer several aquarium benefits, primarily as efficient scavengers and detritivores. Their constant foraging cleans the tank by consuming leftover food and decaying organic matter, contributing to water quality. Their unique movements and nocturnal activity provide interesting observation opportunities.
Considerations before adding a viper tail starfish include their reclusive nature; they may not always be prominently displayed during daylight. While reef-safe, they might disturb loose corals or very small invertebrates if severely underfed, though this is uncommon with proper care. A key consideration is their sensitivity to copper-based medications, which are toxic and should be avoided in tanks housing these invertebrates. They are best suited for established, stable reef or fish-only tanks where their specific environmental and dietary needs can be consistently met.