Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish (Ophiomyxa flaccida)
Hand-collected by our team, the Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish (Ophiomyxa flaccida) is a stunning Caribbean brittle star prized for its brilliant orange coloration, velvety appearance, and graceful, flowing arms. Native to the tropical western Atlantic, including Florida and the Caribbean, this nocturnal scavenger spends its days hidden beneath rockwork before emerging after dark to forage for detritus, biofilm, and leftover food. Its vibrant color and unique texture make it a standout addition to any marine aquarium.
| Species | Ophiomyxa flaccida |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Tropical western Atlantic (Florida, Caribbean) |
| Behavior | Nocturnal scavenger; hides during day, forages at night |
| Appearance | Brilliant orange, velvety texture, flowing arms |
FAQ
What is the typical behavior of the Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish?
The Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish is nocturnal and spends its days hidden beneath rockwork. It emerges at night to forage for detritus, biofilm, and leftover food.
Where is the Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish naturally found?
It is native to the tropical western Atlantic, including Florida and the Caribbean.
How does the Slimy Orange Serpent Starfish contribute to a marine aquarium?
Its vibrant color and unique texture make it a visually striking addition. As a scavenger, it helps clean the tank by consuming detritus and biofilm.


Kevin Mathis –
The orange color is vivid and stands out in the tank. It’s active at night and seems to clean up leftover food. Easy to care for and adds a natural look to the display.
Julian Forsyth –
Beautiful creature with a soft, flowing movement. I noticed it hiding under rocks during the day and coming out at night. It’s a great addition to a reef tank.
Wanda Harris –
The texture is unique and the color is very bright. It doesn’t seem to stress the tank environment and is active without being aggressive.