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Invertebrates

PomPom Crabs: Reef Safe?

pom pom crab
For the most part you will hear people say to keep all crabs out of your reef tank. I don't agree. Of course there are "bad" crabs but not all crabs fall into that category. This video explores the Pom Pom crab and where it fits into that idea of a "bad" crab. A big hint as to my answer should be the fact that this video is of my own pom pom crab. https://youtu.be/AaOxw374kZc
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These Sea Urchins Have a Terrifying Self-Defense Strategy

Some urchins are poisonous to humans as well as fish. Be careful when dealing with the various species as getting stuck can cause a lot of pain and in some cases hospitalization. The urchin in this story is part of a larger group called "collector urchins" because they camouflage themselves by sticking things on their back. The Tuxedo Urchin is an example of this group. This new discovery is quite...
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Have you seen this amphipod in your refugium?

Picture of large clawed amphipod
The below article from Advanced Aquarist mentions that these are not common amphipods. I know I've never seen one in my tank. If I had I would have been quite amazed. Now that I've seen this article I at least know they are out there. If you happen to see one of these running around your sump (I spend time starting at my sump by the way) take a macro shot or video and let me know. I'd be very inte...
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Do you want to keep a pet octopus? There’s something you should know then.

Inky the escaping octopus
The below is an interesting story in itself and fun to read. But I wanted to share it for a particular reason. Octopuses (yes, not octopi) are becoming more and more available in the hobby. It's an animal I've wanted to keep since I was a boy but had to settle for a rubber toy my aunt bought me on a visit to Santa Barbara instead. It's always stuck in my mind. When I got older and really was ab...
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How Do I Care for a Chocolate Chip Star Fish?

Chocolate Chip Star Fish
Sea stars, commonly known as starfish, are among the most sought after marine aquarium animals. It seems no tank is complete without one.  However, they aren't the easiest of animals to keep alive and healthy.  The chocolate chip starfish is the one species you are likely to have success with, but there are some things you should know about it first. Below we will talk about what to look for when ...
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