Live invertebrates bring diversity, natural beauty, and important ecological benefits to saltwater and freshwater aquariums. Whether you're looking for cleaner shrimp, snails, crabs, or corals, invertebrates help maintain a balanced ecosystem by controlling algae, scavenging waste, and adding vibrant colors to your tank. At Petco, you'll find a wide selection of aquatic invertebrates to enhance your aquarium.
Types of Live Invertebrates for Aquariums
Choosing the right invertebrates depends on your tank setup, water conditions, and existing fish or coral species. Some of the most popular options include:
S hrimp – Species like cleaner shrimp, fire shrimp, and peppermint shrimp help remove parasites and excess food from your tank.
Snails – Nerite, mystery, and turbo snails are excellent algae eaters that help maintain clean tank surfaces.
Crabs – Hermit crabs, emerald crabs, and arrow crabs act as natural scavengers, eating leftover food and debris.
Starfish & Sea Urchins – Great for cleaning detritus and aerating substrate, but require stable water conditions.
Coral & Anemones – Essential for reef tanks, providing a natural habitat and aesthetic appeal to marine aquariums.
How to Care for Live Invertebrates
Invertebrates are sensitive to water changes and require stable conditions to thrive. Here’s what to consider when introducing them to your tank:
Tank Compatibility – Ensure that your fish and other tank mates are reef-safe and invertebrate-friendly. Avoid aggressive species that may prey on invertebrates.
Water Quality – Maintain proper pH, salinity, and temperature levels, as invertebrates are highly sensitive to fluctuations.
Acclimation Process – Use a drip acclimation method over 1-2 hours to help invertebrates adjust to new water conditions.
Food & Nutrition – Many invertebrates feed on detritus, algae, or leftover fish food, but some may require supplements like marine pellets, seaweed, or plankton.
Common Questions
Are invertebrates reef-safe?
Some invertebrates, like snails, shrimp, and most crabs, are reef-safe. However, species like certain starfish and larger crabs may pose a threat to corals and small fish.
Do invertebrates need special care?
Yes! Invertebrates are more sensitive to water conditions than fish. Regular water testing and stable salinity levels are crucial for their survival.
How do I introduce invertebrates to my tank?
Use the drip acclimation method to slowly adjust them to your tank’s water parameters. Sudden changes can cause stress or harm.