The Feather Duster (Sabellastarte sp.) is a striking marine species known for its distinctive appearance and dynamic presence in marine aquariums.

Distribution and Habitat

Found throughout the Indo-Pacific attached to rocks and coral rubble in areas with good water flow.

Physical Description

Leathery tube with a colorful feathery crown of radioles, crown can be brown, tan, orange or white, retreats into tube when threatened.

Diet and Feeding

Filter feeder, captures plankton and suspended organic particles from the water column with its feathery crown.

Behavior and Reproduction

Sessile, anchors its tube to rock, sheds its crown when stressed and regrows it, may reproduce by releasing gametes into the water.

Aquarium Care

Requires 30+ gallons with good water flow and plankton, reef-safe, needs regular feedings of phytoplankton or fine particulate foods, sensitive to poor water quality.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.