Fromia Starfish

With its bright red-orange color and a size rarely exceeding 8–10 cm, the Fromia starfish is one of the most suitable sea stars for reef aquariums. It leaves corals, fish and other invertebrates alone. However, a significant share of the individuals that arrive in aquariums are lost in the first weeks: shipping stress, rapid acclimation and failing to find enough food in a new aquarium are the main causes. Specimens in the trade are wild-collected; when buying, choose individuals without wounds, white spots or melting on their arms.

• At least 200 liters and a reef mature for at least 6 months; plenty of live rock surface.
• Salinity 1.024–1.026 specific gravity, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C; salinity and temperature should be stable.
• Reef-safe.
• It should be acclimated very slowly by the drip method for at least 2 hours and not exposed to air; copper-based medications are lethal.

It feeds on biofilm, microalgae and small organic particles on rock and glass surfaces. In a mature aquarium it needs very little extra food; a small piece of mysis or mussel placed under its mouth can be given a few times a week.

Slow and peaceful; it roams over the rocks day and night. If it loses an arm it can regenerate it, but it is very sensitive during this process.

Good companions: clownfish, gobies, cardinalfish, tangs; shrimp, snails.

Avoid: harlequin shrimp, triggerfish and pufferfish, angelfish that pick at sea stars; newly set-up aquariums.