Linckia sp.

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Facts
Latin name Linckia sp.
Local name Red Linckia Sea Star
Family Asteroidea - Linckia
Origin
Max length 30 cm (11.8")
As aquarium fish
Minimum volume 600 l (158 gal)
Hardiness Average
Suitable for aquarium Experience, preparation and extra care required
Reef safe Always reef safe
Aggressiveness Peaceful
Feed
Recommended Detritus
Microalgea (Eg. spirulina)
Small crustaceans (Krill, mysis, artemia...)
Beware of
Difficult to keep alive

This species is hard to keep alive and thriving.

Descriptions and further reading
Genus description (Linckia)

Some sources claim that these sea stars do not eat food offered by the aquarist, therefore it should only be kept in large tanks where it will be able to find enough food on the sand and live rocks.

Family description (Asteroidea)

Sea stars can be an essential part of a clean up crew, as many species live of algae and detritus.
Some species are even quite colorful.

Sea stars should not be kept in tanks with high levels of nitrate or phosphate, as they are more sensitive than most fish.
They might begin to "erode" if the water quality is low or if not provided with enough food.

Many species might be able to find enough food on their own in the aquarium, but if they show signs of starvation, one should feed them fish pellets or similar.

Some species are sensitive to air and changes in salinity, so be careful when moving and acclimating sea stars.

Most sea stars in the trade are harmless and beneficial, but one should be careful when purchasing species with spines, as these are often predatory.

References and further reading

About references

Ronald L. Shimek. 2004. Marine Invertebrates (PocketExpert Guide) - TFH Publications / Microcosm Ltd. - (English)
Philip A. Purser. Aquarium Sea Stars - Fish Channel - (English)
Richard Aspinall. 2015. Sea Stars for the Marine Aquarium - Tropical Fish Hobbyist Magazine - (English)