About Invertebrates

Invertebrates, which represent more than 95% of the known species on Earth, are animals without backbones. Diverse, interesting, colorful, and unusual, marine invertebrates make great additions to your home saltwater aquarium. Not only are they great to watch, they also provide a great service to your aquarium as members of the "clean-up crew," helping to keep your tank clean of unwanted algae and uneaten food.

Many invertebrates are hardy, undemanding, and well-suited for the beginning hobbyist. Like anything you decide to keep in your tank, be sure to do your research as seastars can destroy corals and there are many different types of fish that love to prey on invertebrates.

Invertebrates are generally a peaceful addition to your tank. They are typically hardy and require very little work to maintain. Invertebrates are sensitive to poor water conditions and, in the case of snails, adequate levels of calcium must be present for their shells. Hermit crabs grow and will eventually outgrow their shells so be sure to have empty ones, larger than the ones they currently have, when it's time for a "bigger house."

Invertebrates mainly eat algae and other meaty foods. Typically used as “clean-up” crews, they require very little additional food; however, their diet should be supplemented if your tank does not have enough for them to eat.

Invertebrates are sensitive to copper-based medications. They should not be housed in tanks treated with copper sulfate. They should also not be housed with aggressive tank mates, as they are very slow moving animals. Snails are poisonous if eaten. Many seastars eat corals so it's important to select the right seastar for your tank.