Marine Invertebrates

This beautiful snail from the Philippines is a great algae eater for the lower areas of the aquarium. Its shell has long spikes sticking out from one side. Its heavy shell prevents it from climbing onto rocks but it has a long proboscis that can reach onto the glass. It moves with a hopping motion and may hide under the substrate. Its shell may grow up to 11 inch long.

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Echinoderms such as cucumbers are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums for both water stability and sufficient food supply.The Black Knobby cucumber is pure black with small spines along its sides. It is a useful sand stirring animal which digs down into the deeper layers of substrate. It ingests sand and digests any organic matter. Echinoderms such as cucumbers are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums for both water stability and sufficient food supply. Sand should be minimum 3 inches deep. It may grow up to 12 inches long and needs an aquarium at least 100 gallons.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.A spectacular animal that often grows to 24 inches or more and makes an incredible display. It prefers to bury its foot into deep sand. Its tentacles are very short and numerous. Its bright emerald color is one most widely available varieties. It may host with many clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Percula, Saddleback, Ephippium and Skunk complex clownfish.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.Sebae anemones have beautiful, long tentacles which may completely obscure the mouth, growing up to 12 inches. It is most often a creamy or leathery color with blue or purple tips, with bumps on the column. It is best placed on the sand, just under an overhanging rock. It may host any clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Percula, Skunk, Tomato and Saddleback complexes.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.Sebae anemones have beautiful, long tentacles which may completely obscure the mouth, growing up to 12 inches. It is most often a creamy or leathery color with bumps on the column. It is best placed on the sand, just under an overhanging rock. It may host any clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Percula, Skunk, Tomato and Saddleback complexes.

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The endearing Porcelain crab is one of the most peaceful and reef safe crabs. It uses its pinching claws only in self defense. It has a pair of feeding nets which are near constantly spread in the water to catch particulate foods. It can also feed on scraps of fish food. The Purple Porcelain crab needs plenty of rockwork in order to feel secure. Additions of zooplankton will help ensure the crab gets enough food. Porcelain crabs grow up to 2 inches.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.The Ritteri, or Magnifica anemone, is a spectacular creature covered in creamy colored tentacles with contrasting tips, usually green. Its column and foot are usually bright pink or orange. It has a strong sting and may grow to 24 inches or more. It prefers to be high on the rock or attached near the surface to the aquarium glass. It may host any clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Skunk, Percula, and Tomato complexes.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.An attractive shrimp with bold red and white stripes, it makes the perfect pairing with a shrimp goby. It may be kept without its fish companion but is extremely secretive on its own. It grows up to 1.5 inches.We recommend a shrimp and its goby partner be added to the aquarium at the same time; it is best if they are placed in a net together and gently lowered to the aquarium bottom. The hard-working shrimp will excavate a burrow under the sand for it and the fish to live in, consisting of several tunnels, entrances and exits. The sharp-eyed goby stands guard at one of the entrances and keeps an eye out for threats. At nighttime or when a tunnel is not being used the shrimp will block it off with shells and small rocks. It is important to provide deep sand of at least three inches and plenty of shells and crushed coral of various sizes so the shrimp has enough building material to create a stable dwelling. Rocks should be placed on the aquarium glass and sand poured around them to eliminate the danger of a cave-in when the shrimp excavates. The pistol shrimp has an enlarged claw which may make a clicking or popping sound.If more than one pistol shrimp is to be kept in the same aquarium we recommend space enough to accommodate at least 24 inches between burrows. They are typically peaceful with all tank mates, although there is a small threat to other crustaceans if the pistol shrimp is not getting enough food. To minimize this threat any sort of fish food may be placed at the tunnel entrance for the shrimp to collect.

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The Spider Decorator crab looks like an underwater tarantula covered in bits of live coral, macroalgae, sponges, shells, and any other small objects from its environment providing excellent camouflage. It is an opportunistic feeder and small or weakened tank mates may become fair game. It grows up to 4 inches and is easy to feed on fish food.

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The Serpent star, or Smooth Brittle star, is usually found in colors such as cream, ash and pink, usually with light and dark banding. It spends most of its time hiding inside the rock with its arms sticking out, waiting for some fish food to drift by. It is an efficient scavenger and can clean the rocks of leftover food and detritus. It is completely reef safe and does not bother corals. Because it eagerly consumes fish food it is one of the easiest starfish to keep.Echinoderms such as starfish are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums of at least 6 months to ensure water stability. It grows up to 12 inches and needs an aquarium at least 50 gallons.

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The Tridacna clams are exquisitely colored, very uncommon and highly sought after. They make incredible display animals and thrive under reef conditions. They are peaceful and do not bother any other animal. If threatened they can close their shell tightly. Healthy animals should have a strong response if shadowed or touched, although once established they may become conditioned and show less inclination to close. They will attach themselves to rock with threads from the foot- it is of utmost importance the foot is never damaged as this may lead to the clam's death. Some species may gradually dig themselves into the rock over months or years.Tridacna clams receive most of their energy from the light. Their lighting needs should not be underestimated, exceeding that of even the most demanding corals. Metal halide is recommended over any other lighting method. Regular additions of phytoplankton may also help, especially for very small individuals. Monitoring of alkalinity and calcium is important for continued shell growth. We recommend Tridacna clams only for experienced aquarists with well established aquariums.Best tank-mates are very peaceful animals which will not bite or sting the clam. Angelfish, pufferfish, butterflies and the like are not recommended. Pests such as pyramid snails are sometimes seen which may attack the foot. Some cleaning animals such as cleaner wrasse may inadvertently pester clams to death.One of the most popular giant clams, the Maxima may grow up to 16 inches. 1st grade specimens have nice colors and patterns, with purple and blue being most common. Some clams may have additional colors, ranging from black to white and occasionally turquoise. It is related to Crocea but grows larger. It is best placed directly on rock, not on the sand.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.The delightful Bumble Bee shrimp is white or yellow with fine black stripes. It grows to only 1 inch and makes a perfect addition to a nano aquarium. It will pick on the tube feet of Echinoderms. It should be spot fed some fish food daily.

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This lovely creature is most commonly alternating white and pink, but is sometimes available dark purple or bright yellow. It stays small, rarely reaching 4 inches.Feather duster worms are filter feeders and require frequent additions of phytoplankton in order to thrive. The visible part of the worm is its feeding tentacles and the rest of the worm is hidden within a protective tube. If there is not enough food it may 'drop' its tentacles and attempt to re-grow them. If stressed it may leave its tube, but if undisturbed it can create a new one. It is imperative when placing the worm into the water to rotate it to remove all air bubbles which may have become trapped inside the tube. It is completely harmless and has no sting. It should never be housed with predatory animals such as butterflyfish.

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Hermit crabs need to live inside of a snail shell in order to keep their soft bodies safe. Even with many shells available hermit crabs will occasionally kill snails in order to take their shell. Please ask our staff and we will be happy to supply you with some empty shells.These assorted species of crabs may come in colors such as green, grey and brown. Crabs are opportunistic omnivores and may eat corals, detritus, fish food, and anything else edible.

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Hermit crabs need to live inside of a snail shell in order to keep their soft bodies safe. Even with many shells available hermit crabs will occasionally kill snails in order to take their shell. Please ask our staff and we will be happy to supply you with some empty shells.The Orange Claw hermit is a rusty color with light colored 'socks' on the end of its claws. It is a small to medium sized crab that eats a wide variety of algae including some hair algae. It is considered reef safe, however it is an opportunistic omnivore and will take food where it can find it. It will also eat detritus, algae, fish food, and anything else edible.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.This incredible animal has slender tentacles and may grow up to 19 inches. It prefers to bury its foot in the sand. Most common specimens are cream colored. It can be identified by stripes radiating out from the mouth, and small bumps along its column. It may host any clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Skunk, Saddleback and Maroon complexes.

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This lovely snail from the Philippines is a great algae eater for the lower areas of the aquarium. It is white with black stripes and spots. Its heavy shell prevents it from climbing onto rocks but it has a long proboscis that can reach onto the glass. It moves with a hopping motion and may hide under the substrate. Its shell may grow up to 5 inches long.

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The Large Spiny Astrea snail eats many types of algae including hair algae and some macroalgae. Its shell is typically dark grey and has spikes all over. It may grow to 2.5 inches. It should be placed right side up on the sand after acclimation. It is adapted to rocky habitats; if it falls onto its back on the aquarium's sand it is not physically able to flip over and must be assisted. Snails are extremely sensitive to changes in water quality.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.Rock Flower anemones may grow up to 8 inches and are one of the easiest species to keep. A smooth area around the mouth is surrounded by a ring of longer tentacles. Red specimens may be bright ruby, sometimes with a few stark white tentacles. It will usually bury its foot in the sand. Rock Flower anemones do not host with clownfish, but may become a safe haven for small shrimp and crabs.

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The Tridacna clams are exquisitely colored, very uncommon and highly sought after. They make incredible display animals and thrive under reef conditions. They are peaceful and do not bother any other animal. If threatened they can close their shell tightly. Healthy animals should have a strong response if shadowed or touched, although once established they may become conditioned and show less inclination to close. They will attach themselves to rock with threads from the foot- it is of utmost importance the foot is never damaged as this may lead to the clam's death. Some species may gradually dig themselves into the rock over months or years.Tridacna clams receive most of their energy from the light. Their lighting needs should not be underestimated, exceeding that of even the most demanding corals. Metal halide is recommended over any other lighting method. Regular additions of phytoplankton may also help, especially for very small individuals. Monitoring of alkalinity and calcium is important for continued shell growth. We recommend Tridacna clams only for experienced aquarists with well established aquariums.Best tank-mates are very peaceful animals which will not bite or sting the clam. Angelfish, pufferfish, butterflies and the like are not recommended. Pests such as pyramid snails are sometimes seen which may attack the foot. Some cleaning animals such as cleaner wrasse may inadvertently pester clams to death.Derasa clams are often found in shades of yellow, pink and gold, sometimes with green and blue highlights. They grow up to 18 inches and typically have smooth shells. Although it can tolerate lower lighting levels than most other clams we still recommend very bright lighting. It is best placed directly on rock, however it may burrow into the sand; in this case a rock placed on the glass is recommended in case the clam ever needs to be relocated.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.This incredible animal has slender tentacles and may grow up to 19 inches. It prefers to bury its foot in the sand. Most ultra colored specimens are bright purple. It can be identified by stripes radiating out from the mouth, and small bumps along its column. It may host any clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Skunk, Saddleback and Maroon complexes.

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This spectacular slug comes from Florida and is useful in controlling algae such as Bryopsis. It can photosynthesize via stolen chloroplasts from its algae meal stored in the ruffles on its back. However, it still requires plenty of algae food to survive. It may be various shades of green or yellow. It is very small and may become sucked into powerheads so all pumps should be screened. It is extremely sensitive to changes in water quality.

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The endearing Porcelain crab is one of the most peaceful and reef safe crabs. It uses its pinching claws only in self defense. It has a pair of feeding nets which are near constantly spread in the water to catch particulate foods. It can also feed on scraps of fish food. The White Porcelain crab may host with anemones or corals. Clownfish may pick them off of their anemones, possibly hurting the crab. Additions of zooplankton will help ensure the crab gets enough food. Porcelain crabs grow up to 2 inches.

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The Tridacna clams are exquisitely colored, very uncommon and highly sought after. They make incredible display animals and thrive under reef conditions. They are peaceful and do not bother any other animal. If threatened they can close their shell tightly. Healthy animals should have a strong response if shadowed or touched, although once established they may become conditioned and show less inclination to close. They will attach themselves to rock with threads from the foot- it is of utmost importance the foot is never damaged as this may lead to the clam's death. Some species may gradually dig themselves into the rock over months or years.Tridacna clams receive most of their energy from the light. Their lighting needs should not be underestimated, exceeding that of even the most demanding corals. Metal halide is recommended over any other lighting method. Regular additions of phytoplankton may also help, especially for very small individuals. Monitoring of alkalinity and calcium is important for continued shell growth. We recommend Tridacna clams only for experienced aquarists with well established aquariums.Best tank-mates are very peaceful animals which will not bite or sting the clam. Angelfish, pufferfish, butterflies and the like are not recommended. Pests such as pyramid snails are sometimes seen which may attack the foot. Some cleaning animals such as cleaner wrasse may inadvertently pester clams to death.This is one of the smallest of the clams, growing to only 6 inches. It comes from very shallow water and requires the most intense lighting of any Tridacna clam. Its shell may have small scutes which may be worn away as it burrows into the rock. Crocea typically have incredibly bright colored mantels, often purple, green, or blue. Higher grade specimens have brighter colors and more exotic patterns. It is related to Maxima but stays smaller and has less pronounced scutes than the Maxima.

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One of the hardest working algae eating snails, the Throwing Star, or Ninja Star, eats many types of algae including hair algae. Its flattened shell has spikes all around the edges. It stays small at 1 inch which allows it to reach small crevices in the live rock. It should be placed right side up on the sand after acclimation. It is adapted to rocky habitats; if it falls onto its back on the aquarium's sand it is not physically able to flip over and must be assisted. Snails are extremely sensitive to changes in water quality.

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The Tridacna clams are exquisitely colored, very uncommon and highly sought after. They make incredible display animals and thrive under reef conditions. They are peaceful and do not bother any other animal. If threatened they can close their shell tightly. Healthy animals should have a strong response if shadowed or touched, although once established they may become conditioned and show less inclination to close. They will attach themselves to rock with threads from the foot- it is of utmost importance the foot is never damaged as this may lead to the clam's death. Some species may gradually dig themselves into the rock over months or years.Tridacna clams receive most of their energy from the light. Their lighting needs should not be underestimated, exceeding that of even the most demanding corals. Metal halide is recommended over any other lighting method. Regular additions of phytoplankton may also help, especially for very small individuals. Monitoring of alkalinity and calcium is important for continued shell growth. We recommend Tridacna clams only for experienced aquarists with well established aquariums.Best tank-mates are very peaceful animals which will not bite or sting the clam. Angelfish, pufferfish, butterflies and the like are not recommended. Pests such as pyramid snails are sometimes seen which may attack the foot. Some cleaning animals such as cleaner wrasse may inadvertently pester clams to death.This is one of the smallest of the clams, growing to only 6 inches. It comes from very shallow water and requires the most intense lighting of any Tridacna clam. Its shell may have small scutes which may be worn away as it burrows into the rock. Crocea typically have incredibly bright colored mantels, often purple, green, or blue. Higher grade specimens have brighter colors and more exotic patterns. It is related to Maxima but stays smaller and has less pronounced scutes than the Maxima.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.Pistol shrimp are extremely adept at tunneling under the sand, helping to clean and aerate the substrate. Most species are olive in color and may grow to 2 inches. This type does not bond with any other animals.The hard-working shrimp will excavate a burrow consisting of several tunnels, entrances and exits. At nighttime or when a tunnel is not being used the shrimp will block it off with shells and small rocks. It will make use of shells and crushed coral of various sizes which are important building material to create a stable dwelling. Rocks should be placed on the aquarium glass and sand poured around them to eliminate the danger of a cave-in when the shrimp excavates. The pistol shrimp has an enlarged claw which may make a clicking or popping sound.If more than one pistol shrimp is to be kept in the same aquarium we recommend space enough to accommodate at least 24 inches between burrows. They are typically peaceful with all tank mates, although there is a small threat to other crustaceans if the pistol shrimp is not getting enough food. To minimize this threat any sort of fish food may be placed at the tunnel entrance for the shrimp to collect.

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Echinoderms such as cucumbers are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums for both water stability and sufficient food supply.This delightful animal is a bright sunny yellow sometimes with greenish stripes. It uses its tiny tube feet to attach itself to its environment in an area of high water flow, extending its feeding tentacles to catch tiny floating food particles from the water. If provided with enough food it may reproduce by division. It grows up to 2 inches long.Covers over all intakes are required or the cucumber may accidently become sucked inside. Like other filter-feeding cucumbers its body contains holothurin toxin. This species is unlikely to cause problems, however, because it contains only a very small amount of mild toxin. A water change and fresh carbon should be used if it is noticed a cucumber has died. Echinoderms such as cucumbers are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums and addition of supplemental foods such as phytoplankton. If it is starving it may shrink in size or lose its feeding tentacles, at which point food supply should be increased.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.A lovely shrimp with yellow to rose color and thin pencil stripes along its body, and a bold white saddle on its back. It makes the perfect pairing with a shrimp goby. It may be kept without its fish companion but is extremely secretive on its own. It grows up to 2.5 inches.We recommend a shrimp and its goby partner be added to the aquarium at the same time; it is best if they are placed in a net together and gently lowered to the aquarium bottom. The hard-working shrimp will excavate a burrow under the sand for it and the fish to live in, consisting of several tunnels, entrances and exits. The sharp-eyed goby stands guard at one of the entrances and keeps an eye out for threats. At nighttime or when a tunnel is not being used the shrimp will block it off with shells and small rocks. It is important to provide deep sand of at least three inches and plenty of shells and crushed coral of various sizes so the shrimp has enough building material to create a stable dwelling. Rocks should be placed on the aquarium glass and sand poured around them to eliminate the danger of a cave-in when the shrimp excavates. The pistol shrimp has an enlarged claw which may make a clicking or popping sound.If more than one pistol shrimp is to be kept in the same aquarium we recommend space enough to accommodate at least 24 inches between burrows. They are typically peaceful with all tank mates, although there is a small threat to other crustaceans if the pistol shrimp is not getting enough food. To minimize this threat any sort of fish food may be placed at the tunnel entrance for the shrimp to collect.

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The Fancy Serpent star, or Smooth Brittle star, is usually found in a Harlequin pattern of high contrast black and white stripes. It spends most of its time hiding inside the rock with its arms sticking out, waiting for some fish food to drift by. It is an efficient scavenger and can clean the rocks of leftover food and detritus. It is completely reef safe and does not bother corals. Because it eagerly consumes fish food it is one of the easiest starfish to keep.Echinoderms such as starfish are extremely sensitive to changes in the water quality. They require well established aquariums of at least 6 months to ensure water stability. It grows up to 12 inches and needs an aquarium at least 50 gallons.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.This striking animal is intense scarlet with bright spots along its back, sides and antennae. Pistol shrimp are extremely adept at tunneling under the sand, helping to clean and aerate the substrate. This type grows to 3 inches and may bond with the Curlieque Anemone, creating a very unique display.The hard-working shrimp will excavate a burrow consisting of several tunnels, entrances and exits. If provided with a Curlieque anemone its tunnel will be next to its partner. At nighttime or when a tunnel is not being used the shrimp will block it off with shells and small rocks. It will make use of shells and crushed coral of various sizes which are important building material to create a stable dwelling. Rocks should be placed on the aquarium glass and sand poured around them to eliminate the danger of a cave-in when the shrimp excavates. The pistol shrimp has an enlarged claw which may make a clicking or popping sound.If more than one pistol shrimp is to be kept in the same aquarium we recommend space enough to accommodate at least 24 inches between burrows. They are typically peaceful with all tank mates, although there is a small threat to other crustaceans if the pistol shrimp is not getting enough food. To minimize this threat any sort of fish food may be placed at the tunnel entrance for the shrimp to collect.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.This colorful and diminutive shrimp is uncommon and highly sought after. Its claws and tail are striking scarlet and white, and its legs and abdomen are bright yellow. It stays small, only growing to 1.5 inches. Its long white whiskers communicate to fishes that it may clean them of parasites and old skin. It may not however cure an aquarium of ICH or other parasites; its main benefit is to lower the fishes stress. The Purple Coral Banded shrimp spends most of its time within the rockwork and emerges at night or feeding time. It is aggressive towards its own species but occasionally forms pairs. It is an opportunistic feeder and may attack other crustaceans and small snails and worms. It is easy to feed on fish food.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.This colorful and diminutive shrimp is uncommon and highly sought after. Its claws and tail are striking scarlet and white, its legs are blue, and its abdomen is yellow. It stays small, only growing to 1.5 inches. Its long white whiskers communicate to fishes that it may clean them of parasites and old skin. It may not however cure an aquarium of ICH or other parasites; its main benefit is to lower the fishes stress. The Purple Coral Banded shrimp spends most of its time within the rockwork and emerges at night or feeding time. It is aggressive towards its own species but occasionally forms pairs. It is an opportunistic feeder and may attack other crustaceans and small snails and worms. It is easy to feed on fish food.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.This colorful and diminutive shrimp is uncommon and highly sought after. Its limbs and tail are striking scarlet, lemon and white and its abdomen is deep bluish purple. It stays small, only growing to 1.5 inches. Its long white whiskers communicate to fishes that it may clean them of parasites and old skin. It may not however cure an aquarium of ICH or other parasites; its main benefit is to lower the fishes stress. The Purple Coral Banded shrimp spends most of its time within the rockwork and emerges at night or feeding time. It is aggressive towards its own species but occasionally forms pairs. It is an opportunistic feeder and may attack other crustaceans and small snails and worms. It is easy to feed on fish food.

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Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.An intelligent and efficient predator, the Mantis shrimp is actually a stomatopod and makes a wonderful pet in its own aquarium. It can learn to recognize human faces and identify its owner. It is easy to feed on chopped seafood such as krill and clams. It has a smasher-type claw designed to crack the shell of crabs and other hard-shelled creatures, and may also hunt fish. Care should be taken as it may also injure the hand that feeds it. Large individuals are capable of cracking glass so acrylic aquariums are recommended.The Mantis shrimp prefers dim lighting and plenty of rockwork and sand to create a borrow for itself. Rocks placed in a cave formation will help it feel secure. It may grow up to 6 inches and be a rainbow of colors including emerald, sapphire and ruby.

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This delightful creature is bright purple and orange all over. It may hide under rocks for much of the day but will emerge at night time or when hungry. It is an opportunistic omnivore and will take any food available, but is usually well behaved. It is a small threat to sleeping fish, snails, crabs, urchins and anything else it can catch. If well fed the lobster's predatory nature is more subdued. It is easy to keep, may grow up to 5 inches and needs an aquarium at least 50 gallons.

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Hermit crabs need to live inside of a snail shell in order to keep their soft bodies safe. Even with many shells available hermit crabs will occasionally kill snails in order to take their shell. Please ask our staff and we will be happy to supply you with some empty shells.These assorted species of crabs may come in colors such as green, grey and brown, sometimes with colored eyes or claws. Crabs are opportunistic omnivores and may eat corals, fish food, detritus, algae and more.

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This large snail from the Philippines is a great algae eater for the lower areas of the aquarium. Its heavy shell prevents it from climbing onto rocks but it has a long proboscis that can reach onto the glass. It moves with a hopping motion and may hide under the substrate. Its shell may grow up to 4 inches long.

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This spectacular creature is also known as the Painted Lobster. Alternating bands of deep sapphire and white cover every part of its body, except its long antennae which are pure white. It may hide under rocks for much of the day but will emerge at night time or when hungry. Its long antennae are nearly always visible. It is an opportunistic omnivore and will take any food available, possibly threatening sleeping fish, snails, crabs, urchins and anything else it can catch. If well fed the lobster's predatory nature is more subdued. It is easy to keep, may grow up to 12 inches and needs an aquarium at least 100 gallons.

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Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. Large anemones such as carpets may even kill larger fish. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.Anemones receive most of their energy from the light, which should be very bright. Metal halide is the preferred lighting for most anemones. Feeding should be at least twice weekly and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis or chopped krill. Large specimens may take diced fish.The foot of the anemone enables them to adhere to glass and also to crawl around the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander for some time before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.A spectacular animal that often grows to 24 inches or more and makes an incredible display. It prefers to bury its foot into deep sand. Its tentacles are very short and numerous. Its bright blue color is extremely rare. It may host with many clownfish species, hosting easiest with Clarkii, Percula, Saddleback, Ephippium and Skunk complex clownfish.

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