Common name: Sea Sand Starfish

General Information

The Sea Sand Starfish, Astropecten spinulosus, is a fascinating echinoderm known for its unique star-shaped body and spiny texture. Native to the sandy bottoms of the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean, this species is often found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 200 meters. Its distinctive appearance and intriguing behavior make it a captivating addition to marine aquariums, particularly those designed to mimic sandy or soft substrate environments.

While not as commonly kept as other marine invertebrates, the Sea Sand Starfish is valued for its role in the ecosystem as a detritivore, helping to keep the aquarium clean by consuming organic debris. However, it is essential to ensure that the aquarium environment is suitable for its needs, particularly in terms of substrate and water quality.

Care

The Sea Sand Starfish requires specific care to thrive in captivity. It does best in aquariums with sandy substrates, where it can burrow and forage for food. The tank should be stable, with consistent water parameters and a gentle flow to mimic its natural habitat. While it is relatively hardy, sudden changes in water conditions can be detrimental.

This starfish is not particularly demanding in terms of tank size, but a minimum of 100 liters is recommended to provide ample space for movement and foraging. It is crucial to maintain good water quality, with regular water changes and monitoring of salinity, pH, and temperature.

Diet and Feeding

Astropecten spinulosus is a detritivore, feeding on organic matter found within the substrate. In captivity, it can be offered a diet that includes small pieces of fish, shrimp, and other marine foods. It is important to ensure that food reaches the substrate where the starfish can access it, as they primarily feed by sifting through sand.

Feeding should occur every few days, with portions adjusted based on the starfish's size and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so it is essential to monitor feeding closely.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Sea Sand Starfish is generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other marine species. However, it is important to avoid housing it with aggressive predators that might view it as food. It is also essential to ensure that the tank mates do not compete excessively for the same food resources.

While not aggressive, the Sea Sand Starfish may inadvertently disturb corals or other delicate invertebrates as it moves across the substrate. Care should be taken to ensure that the tank setup allows for peaceful coexistence.

Health and Common Issues

Astropecten spinulosus can live for several years in captivity with proper care. To ensure its health, it is important to maintain stable water conditions and a clean environment. Regular monitoring for signs of stress or disease, such as color changes or unusual behavior, can help prevent health issues.

Common problems include injuries from rough handling or tank mates, as well as stress from poor water quality. Ensuring a suitable habitat and gentle tank maintenance can help mitigate these risks.