Brittle Star
A nocturnal scavenger that emerges at night to consume detritus and uneaten food — the reef's cleanup ninja.
Read article →Reef livestock care guides
In-depth species profiles for reef-safe fish, corals, invertebrates, and cleanup crew — minimum tank size, aggression, feeding, and tank-mate guidance.
Scarlet Hermit Crab
The reef-safest hermit crab — smaller and less destructive than blue-legs, eats algae and detritus.
Read article →Astrea Snail
The standard reef cleanup snail — effective algae grazer but cannot right itself when knocked over.
Read article →Tuxedo Urchin
A blue-and-white urchin that grazes algae continuously and decorates itself with shells — reef-safe and entertaining.
Read article →Coral Banded Shrimp
A striking red-and-white banded shrimp — beautiful, but territorial with other shrimp species.
Read article →Pistol Shrimp (Tiger)
The legendary snapping shrimp that pairs with watchman gobies — reef-safe and endlessly entertaining.
Read article →Bartlett's Anthias
A reasonable beginner anthias — smaller and less demanding than most anthias species, but still needs frequent feeding.
Read article →Chalk Bass
A peaceful Caribbean grouper relative that stays small — one of the most underrated beginner fish.
Read article →Royal Dottyback
A vivid purple-yellow dottyback with bold personality — reef safe but feisty with similar species.
Read article →Yasha Goby
A peaceful red-and-white goby that pairs with pistol shrimp — smaller and shyer than the watchman.
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