Common name: granulated sea star

General information

The Granulated Sea Star, Choriaster granulatus, is a distinctive and attractive species known for its large, granulated plates that cover its body. This sea star has a broad, pentagonal shape and typically exhibits a coloration that ranges from pink to red, with occasional variations of cream or yellow. It is a slow-moving, gentle giant among sea stars, reaching up to 30 centimeters in diameter.

Care

Choriaster granulatus is a hardy species that can be a good choice for a reef aquarium, provided it is given ample space to roam and a stable environment. It requires a sand substrate for foraging and a tank with live rock formations where it can find shelter and scavenge for detritus and small organisms. This sea star is sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, so maintaining consistent water quality is crucial.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Choriaster granulatus typically occurs through broadcast spawning, where males and females release sperm and eggs into the water column. In the aquarium, this behavior is less common, but hobbyists may observe small sea stars that have developed from fragments of the parent if conditions are favorable.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, the Granulated Sea Star often coexists peacefully with a variety of reef inhabitants. It can be part of a diverse and balanced aquarium ecosystem, contributing to detritus breakdown and nutrient cycling.

Habitat

Choriaster granulatus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Great Barrier Reef and as far north as Japan. It inhabits coral reefs and sandy bottoms, typically at depths of 2 to 60 meters, where it can be seen foraging during the day.