Tag: invertebrates
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Aquarium Stocking Guide: How Many Fish Per Tank?
When you set up your first saltwater aquarium, the temptation is to pack in as many of your favorite species as possible. But if you refer to the average aquarium stocking guide, you know that practice won’t work. Overcrowded tanks lead to complications with water quality. You can also end up with behavior problems as…
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Powerful Pistol Shrimp: Snapping, Symbiosis, and More
When it comes time to choose your reef tank invertebrates, you’re spoiled for choice. And you’ll find plenty of popular options. But have you considered the pistol shrimp? This amazing crustacean often slides under the radar with hobbyists (a tongue-in-cheek joke if you aren’t familiar with the species). It isn’t as famous as the cleaner…
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Peppermint Shrimp Care Guide: Lysmata wurdemanni
Peppermint shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) are brightly colored, inexpensive saltwater reef shrimp species often recommended to help control Aiptasia anemone populations. But they’re also fun, engaging, easy-to-care-for invertebrates that add color and variety to your reef tank. If you’ve never considered these crustaceans before, let’s dive a bit deeper into their quirks, how to care for…
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Vermetid Snails: Destructive Aquarium Pests
Ask any aquarist to rattle off a list of their most dreaded pests, and you’ll find vermetid snails. These invertebrates wreak havoc on reef tanks in no time at all. Even worse, trying to find and eradicate them can pose a challenge. Good thing you have this handy primer to everything “worm snail!” Table of…
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6 Sensational Saltwater Shrimp Every Aquarist Loves
Every aquarist wants that little bit of elegance and character for their reef tank. And these sensational saltwater shrimp do the trick. Not only do you get some vibrant colors and patterns (always a plus), but you’ll also gain some extra activity and help around the aquarium. (Form AND function – how can you go…
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Serpent Starfish Care: Ophiuroidea
When people think of starfish, they call to mind the five-pointed echinoderms you learn to recognize as a kid. So you might overlook serpent starfish at first glance. These brightly colored members of the group trade in those “stubby” arms for long, snake-like limbs. It’s the perfect touch to a saltwater aquarium craving a unique touch.…
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Sea Hares: Facts, Eggs, Ink, and Care
If you’re looking for a challenging, unusual invertebrate to add to your tank, take a look at the sea hares. Due to the possible toxins these sea hares can release and their specific care requirements, the species are considered difficult to keep. It’s recommended that only expert-level hobbyists attempt to take on these sea slugs.…
