Saltwater Invertebrates

What are marine invertebrates?

Marine invertebrates are invertebrates – animals without a spine or internal skeleton – that live in saltwater habitats, typically on the ocean floor. There are thousands of different types of marine invertebrates, many of which can be added to reef tanks alongside fish to create thriving ecosystems comparable to those seen in the Pacific Ocean and Red Sea. Starfish, Hermit Crabs, Anemones, Molluscs, Fan Worms, and Shrimp are just some examples of marine invertebrates.

Why are marine invertebrates beneficial for reef tanks?

Like other animals, marine invertebrates play significant roles in the ecosystems they live in. Most marine invertebrates aren’t picky when it comes to eating and will feed on anything from algae to uneaten fish food. By doing this, they keep your marine aquarium clean and help to remove organic material that may otherwise break down and cause dangerous ammonia spikes. A lot of marine invertebrates also form symbiotic relationships with fish – for example, Anemones will provide Clownfish with shelter in exchange for food!

How do you look after marine invertebrates?

Some marine invertebrates can be difficult to care for and require specific conditions and parameters that beginners may be unable to provide. That’s not to say that most marine invertebrates aren’t beginner friendly, however; far from it! Hermit Crabs, Snails, and Snails are particularly good for beginner reef keepers and, provided their diets are supplemented with some targeted foods, should get on just fine. For more information about how to care for certain types of marine invertebrates, check out the details beneath each livestock listing on our website.