Wendt's brittle star

Ophiocoma wendtii

InvertebrateMarine

Wendt's brittle star is a serpentine starfish with a central disc-shaped body and long, slender arms. Its coloration ranges from brown to gray with lighter bands. It is a nocturnal species that hides in rock crevices during the day. It plays an important role in cleaning the substrate by consuming organic waste. In an aquarium, it requires a mature tank with good water flow and plenty of hiding places.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature24–28
pH8.1–8.4
NO₃≤ 20
PO₄≤ 0.1

Care

Difficulty2/5
Dietomnivore
Min. tank100 L
Min. group1
Adult size25 cm
Lifespan5 ans
Temperamentpaisible

Care notes

Maintain temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Introduce into an established aquarium with sandy substrate and live rock. Avoid strong pumps that could injure the arms. Feed with frozen meaty foods or invertebrate tablets.