Starfish

Star fish are interesting creatures. We currently have two larger starfish in our tank, a grey Serpent Sea Star and a blue Linckia Sea Star. We also have many small white Spiny Beaded starfish that seem to just appear. Sometimes a part of a starfish’s arm will detach itself and will start growing into a new starfish, and that is why we have so many in our tank that we did not purchase.

We would love to get another larger one, however it is suggested that we get a bigger tank before doing so. Three starfish in a 55 gallon tank is said to be too many. The particular starfish I would love to get is the “Red-Knobbed Starfish.” It will add color to the tank and has an interesting shape to it.

Starfish are echinoderms belonging to the class Asteroidia. There are about 1800 living species of starfish in the world’s oceans, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian as well as in the Arctic and the Southern ocean regions. They are found in a broad range from the shallow waters to abyssal depths.

Starfish possess a number of known traits, such as regeneration and feeding on mussels. They also have a wide diversity of body forms and feeding methods. Most Starfish typically have five rays or arms; however, there are many species that have more. The Solasteridae starfish in particular has 10-15 feet arms and the Antarctic Labidiaster Annulatus starfish can have up to 50. It seems crazy to me to think there are starfish out there with 50 arms.

Starfish make great additions to saltwater tanks and I can’t wait to get another one.

Serpent Starfish

                                                     

Linckia Starfish