Asterina Star Fish

Details

Scientific Name: Asterina spp.
Identification: A small (under 1" across) off-white, light brown, or mottled starfish, with short, wide legs for its body size.

Pest Management

Treatment: Harlequin Shrimp eat Asterina (as well as every other starfish), so use with caution. The easiest way to remove these pests is to simply pick them out
Prevention: Carefully examine any new piece of rock or coral before adding to your tank, and remove any unwanted pests.

Description

This small star may be one of several species that hitchhikes into our tanks (Class: Astroidea). They are probably harmless algal grazers and detritivores, however, they should be watched carefully as many starfish are coral predators. They may have as few as 2 to as many as 6 fully formed arms. They commonly emerge from shelter at night.

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