Invertebrates

Clams

Tridacna showpieces that love bright light and stable calcium/alkalinity.

Clean-Up Crew

A hardworking mix of snails, hermits, and more that tackle algae, detritus, and film before it becomes a problem.

Crabs

From emerald algae-eaters to porcelain filter-feeders—quirky and useful, with occasional mischief.

Feather Dusters / Worms

Delicate crowns on tube worms that filter fine foods from the water column.

Hermit Crabs

Lobsters

Armored night-walkers—striking but often predatory toward small fish and shrimp.

Scallops

Filter-feeders with flashy mantles—difficult long-term without heavy plankton feeding.

Sea Cucumbers

Sand-vacuuming detritivores—great cleaners, but choose safer species and protect intakes.

Sea Slugs & Nudibranchs

A broader look at sea slugs—beautiful but best for experienced keepers due to strict diets.

Shrimp

From cleaner ‘fish spas’ to fire-red showpieces—helpful and eye-catching citizens.

Snails

Algae and film grazers for glass, rock, and sand—quiet, steady caretakers of the reef.

Sponge

Natural filters that dislike air exposure—best handled submerged and shaded.

Stars

From sand-sifters to brittle stars—some are helpful, others delicate; research species needs.

Urchins

Spiky algae mowers that also ‘decorate’ themselves—great cleaners, watch your frags.