Giant Feather Duster

Sabellastarte magnifica

Identification	Large feathery crown (radiole) in purple, white, tan, or brown, reaching 4–5 inches across when fully extended. Lives in a flexible parchment-like tube anchored to rock or substrate.
Maximum Length	8 inches (tube length)
Origin	Caribbean, Atlantic
Minimum Tank Size	20 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Excellent — filter feeder, poses no threat to corals

Behavior

Extends its feathery crown into the water column when flow is present to filter-feed on plankton. Will retract instantly into its tube when disturbed — a normal startle response. If repeatedly disturbed it may shed its crown, which can regrow over several weeks. Needs moderate, steady flow.

Diet & Feeding

Filter feeder. Consumes phytoplankton, zooplankton, and fine particulate organic matter from the water column. Supplement 2–3 times per week with liquid reef foods or live phytoplankton.

Cautions

Predatory fish (wrasses, puffers, butterflyfish) will bite off the crown. Will not survive in very low-nutrient, heavily skimmed tanks without supplemental feeding. Avoid placing in very high or very low flow areas.