Common name: Japanese common starfish

General information

The Northern Pacific Seastar, Asterias amurensis, is a species of starfish native to the coastal waters of northern China, Korea, Russia, and Japan. This species is known for its distinctive five arms and its ability to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. It has a voracious appetite and is considered an invasive species in several regions, including Australia and Tasmania, where it poses a threat to local marine ecosystems.

Care

While not commonly kept in home aquariums due to its invasive nature and potential to disrupt tank ecosystems, Asterias amurensis can be kept in captivity under specific conditions. They require a large tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. It is crucial to monitor their diet and population within the tank to prevent overfeeding and overpopulation.

Reproduction

Northern Pacific Seastars are prolific breeders, with females capable of producing millions of eggs each breeding season. In an aquarium setting, controlling their reproduction is essential to prevent overpopulation. They reproduce through broadcast spawning, where eggs and sperm are released into the water column.

Symbiosis

There are no notable symbiotic relationships involving Asterias amurensis that are beneficial to reef aquariums. In fact, their presence can be detrimental to other tank inhabitants due to their predatory nature.

Habitat

In the wild, Asterias amurensis is found in a range of habitats from shallow waters to depths of over 200 meters. They are often associated with muddy or sandy substrates and can tolerate brackish water conditions.