Brittle Sea Star, Knobby Fancy (Ophiomastix annulosa)

The Knobby Fancy Brittle Sea Star, or Chain-Link Brittle Star, has a very small red central disc which may have variable patterns. The long, elegant arms are fringed with fancy paddle-shaped spines and among shorter sharp spines.

It is nocturnal and often hides under rocks during the day. At night, it comes out to eat detritus and small organisms. Avoid housing with slow, small, sluggish fish.

The Knobby Fancy Brittle Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. The drip acclimation method is highly recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerability to changes in water chemistry. It should never be exposed to air while handling.

Ophiomastix annulosa is reported to possess toxic mucus capable of paralysis and fatality in small animals. Always use caution when handling, and avoid any contact with eyes or mouth.

In the aquarium it may be fed zooplankton, very finely chopped meaty items, and liquid invertebrate foods.