The white burrowing starfish will move through the sand and bury themselves. Good sifters, and they do not eat the critters (so I've been told). I've seen arguments that go either way. I'm not complaining - there are plenty of critters in my sand bed.
You need to keep good water - they are very sensitive to nitrates.
A goby may eat the critters in the sand, but it will NOT kill the bacteria that is crucial in the sand. That's most important, for filtration and cutting back on nitrates.
It's a personal preference, IMO. Some people think the critters are beneficial.
I personally, do not like worms everywhere. My orange spotted goby does a great job of sifting the sand, and keeping the worm population down.
He cleans the bottom of the tank, and eats just about anything that gets in front of him.
Hermits will also do a good job, just not as effective by themselves, since they are so small. But necessary, as they will also eat algae and waste that falls to the bottom.
Definitely read up on the dragon wrasse. Can't remember where, but think I read that they are pretty messy and destructive in reefs. Could be mistaken - I've never had one, but they are cool.
So many options out there. I'm sure there are pros & cons for everything. Just choose what you want for your tank and I'm sure it will be great. Juli
[ June 13, 2001: Message edited by: jups1 ]
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