Common name: Anderson's Sand Star

General information

Anderson's Sand Star, Astropecten andersoni, is a species of starfish found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is known for its distinctive radial symmetry and the ability to regenerate lost arms. This species is a fascinating addition to the marine aquarium due to its active sand-sifting behavior, which helps to aerate and clean the substrate.

Care

Caring for Anderson's Sand Star requires a spacious tank with a thick sand bed, as they are natural burrowers. They are nocturnal and will often hide during the day. A varied diet consisting of small invertebrates, detritus, and organic matter is essential for their health. It's important to note that they may prey on small snails and other beneficial invertebrates, so tank mates should be chosen with care.

Reproduction

In the wild, Astropecten andersoni reproduces by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe spawning behavior.

Habitat

Anderson's Sand Star is typically found in shallow waters, often buried in sandy substrates. They are distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific Ocean. Their natural habitat includes coral reefs and adjacent sandy areas where they play a role in the ecosystem by consuming detritus and aerating the substrate.