Linckia Sea Star - (Linckia teres) (Linckia laevigata) (Echinaster sp.)

Care Level - Moderate

Temperament- Peaceful

Reef Safe - Yes

Max Size - 6"

Orange Sea Star(Echinaster sp.)

The color of the Orange Sea Star, or Starfish, may range from orange to red. It is sometimes called the Red Sea Star. It can have a variety of surface textures depending upon the locale. Some Echinaster Sea Stars have 6 arms.

It prefers a sandy, coral rubble substrate, or, especially live rock with algae. It moves over the surface, eating the small microbes and other bits of common detritus. A larger specimen could be harmful to clams, sponges, and small anemones in the reef aquarium.

The Orange Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. The drip acclimation method is highly recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerability to changes in water chemistry. It should never be exposed to air while handling.

In the aquarium, supplement with dried seaweed, and small pieces of clam meat, or tablets which can be placed under the starfish.

Approximate Purchase Size: Medium: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"; Large: 2-1/2" to 4"

The Blue Linckia Sea Star is certain to be the shining star for the dedicated reef aquarium enthusiast. The unusual blue color of this sea star is truly remarkable and this standout color makes the Blue Linckia Sea Star a beautiful focal point. Its bright blue body may sometimes be embellished with red or purplish spots. The Blue Linckia Sea Star is also known as the Comet Sea Star, Blue Sea Star, or Blue Starfish.

In the wild, the Blue Linckia Sea Star is found in the sunny areas of the reef and reef fringe, constantly foraging for food. In the home aquarium setting, the Blue Linckia Sea Star prefers a well-lit sandy or coral rubble substrate, with many rocky hiding places. As a juvenile (when it has a blue-green coloration), the Blue Linckia Sea Star spends most of the day hiding in small caves or overhangs. As a larger adult, it can be seen anchored to the rocks or glass, waving one or two arms in the water, searching for small, free-floating microbes. The Blue Linckia Sea Star is generally solitary, but it will tolerate other starfish and amiable fish in the aquarium.

The Blue LinckiaSea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. The drip-acclimation method is highly recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerance to changes in water chemistry. The Blue Linckia Sea Star should never be exposed to air while handling, and should be carefully monitored for the presence of a small parasitic snail, Thyca crystallina. In the wild, the Blue Linckia Sea Star is capable of regenerating a new starfish from almost any portion of its body that might break off. In the home aquarium, this is far less likely.

Small pieces of clam meat or tablets can be placed under the Blue Linckia Sea Star starfish to supplement its diet.

Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2" to 6"

Burgundy Sea Star(Echinaster sp.) 

The Burgundy Sea Star, also known as the Purple Sea Star or Tamarisk Sea Star, is a deep purple to magenta color, and has long cylindrical arms, sometimes having six instead of five.

It prefers a well-lit aquarium with a sandy, coral rubble substrate, and live rock. It will move over the rock searching for small microbes and other bits of common detritus to eat. It may be harmful to clams, sponges, and small anemones. The Burgundy Sea Star is generally solitary.

The Burgundy Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. The drip acclimation method is highly recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerability to changes in water chemistry. It should never be exposed to air while handling.

In the aquarium, the diet should be supplemented with dried seaweed, and small pieces of clam meat or tablets can be placed under the starfish.

Approximate Purchase Size: 3" to 5"

Linckia Sea Star, Red(Linckia sp.) 

The Red Linckia Star has long cylindrical arms that are red in coloration. This sea star is one of the most popular with reef enthusiasts and thrives when maintained in good water conditions. A very active star, this species is normally visible during the day.

It prefers a well-lit aquarium with a sandy, coral rubble substrate, and live rock. It will move over the rock searching for small microorganisms and other bits of common detritus to eat. It may be harmful to clams, sponges, and small anemones. The Red Linckia Star is generally solitary. It is very intolerant of sudden changes in temperature, oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. It should never be exposed to air while handling.

In the aquarium, the diet should be supplemented with dried seaweed, and small pieces of clam meat or tablets can be placed under the star.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 4"