Common name: Granulated Sea Star

General Information

The Granulated Sea Star, scientifically known as Choriaster granulatus, is a unique and intriguing addition to marine aquariums. Recognizable by its plump, dough-like appearance, this sea star is a favorite among marine enthusiasts due to its striking pinkish hue and distinctive texture, resembling a star-shaped pillow. Its body is covered with small, grain-like structures, giving it a granular appearance from which it derives its name.

Although not as commonly seen in home aquariums as some other species, the Granulated Sea Star plays an essential role in the marine ecosystem as a scavenger, helping to keep the environment clean by consuming detritus and decaying matter.

Care

Caring for the Granulated Sea Star requires attention to water quality and stability. They thrive in well-established marine tanks with plenty of live rock to graze on. As they are sensitive to changes in water parameters, maintaining stable salinity, temperature, and pH is crucial for their well-being. A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended to provide ample space for movement and exploration.

To enrich their environment, provide a variety of live rock formations and sandy substrates. This setup mimics their natural habitat and encourages natural foraging behavior, promoting their health and activity.

Diet and Feeding

Granulated Sea Stars are omnivorous scavengers, feeding primarily on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a diet that includes sinking pellets, frozen foods, and occasional offerings of small pieces of fish or shrimp. This variety ensures they receive balanced nutrition and supports their role as efficient cleaners in the aquarium.

Feed them every few days, ensuring uneaten food is removed to maintain water quality. Observing their feeding habits can help adjust the diet to meet their nutritional needs.

Behavior and Compatibility

Typically peaceful and slow-moving, Granulated Sea Stars are suitable for community tanks with other non-aggressive species. They can coexist with a variety of fish and invertebrates, provided they are not housed with aggressive predators that may harm them.

Their docile nature makes them compatible with other tank mates, but caution should be taken to ensure they are not placed with species that may view them as prey.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Granulated Sea Stars can thrive in captivity for several years. Selecting a healthy specimen is crucial; look for individuals with intact arms and a firm, plump body. Avoid those with signs of damage or stress.

Regular monitoring of water quality and providing a balanced diet are essential to prevent common issues such as tissue necrosis or bacterial infections. Quarantine new additions to the tank and maintain optimal conditions to minimize health risks.

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Granulated Sea Star inhabits coral reefs and sandy lagoons. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters, favoring areas with abundant live rock and sandy substrates.

Creating a tank environment that replicates these conditions will support their natural behaviors and contribute to their overall health and longevity.