The Feather Star (Crinoid) paired with the Discotrema goby is a remarkable symbiotic duo for marine aquarists seeking to add both beauty and ecological interest to their reef tanks. Feather Stars are suspension feeders that extend their feathery arms to capture plankton and detritus, while Discotrema gobies live closely with their hosts, often seen perched on or near the crinoid arms.
Care Level: Moderate. Feather Stars require stable water conditions and appropriate feeding, while Discotrema gobies are peaceful and reef compatible.
Feeding: Feather Stars benefit from regular feeding of finely chopped meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, phytoplankton, or specialised invertebrate diets. Discotrema gobies will accept small live or frozen foods like copepods and brine shrimp.
Compatibility & Reef Safety: Both species are reef safe and peaceful, making them excellent additions to community reef tanks. Avoid housing with aggressive fish or invertebrates that may harm the Feather Star.
Water Flow & Placement: Moderate to strong water flow is essential to help the Feather Star capture food particles. Place the pair in a well-established aquarium with ample water movement and stable parameters. Position the Feather Star on rockwork or substrate where it can fully extend its arms.
Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended to provide adequate space and water quality for this pair.
Additional Notes: Feather Stars are sensitive to sudden changes in water quality and require consistent feeding to thrive. Discotrema gobies rely on their host for shelter and should be introduced together or shortly after the Feather Star.
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