chocolate chip starfish

[paulhoff]

hey, just seen one of these guys in lfs today but didnt have time to stop and ask about it was wondering if anyone can tell me about them. im setting up my first 60g FOWLR are they gonna be suitable for this and a newbie like me? thanks

 

[mcsassy]

Should be fine...so as long as it stays without corals.

 

[Slappy*McFish]

I hand feed mine about once a week. Usually with either a piece of krill, clam, mussel, crab meat, etc.

 

[paulhoff]

awesome! as i saw somewhere after i posted that they can grow to be massive, is that just in the wild? do they need to go into an established tank with algae of just a relatively new tank with loads of live rock is ok?

 

[Slappy*McFish]

Just like all sea stars, they are sensitive and need a stable environment. When they're not happy their arms will curl up.
All they need is some live rock in an established/stable tank. As far as their size is concerned, I'd say 5-6" span is the norm in aquariums. Unfortunately, many sea stars lead short lives in captivity. I've had mine for about a year and a half now. It's around 3.5-4".

 

[paulhoff]

cheers