Common name: Red Starfish

Scientific name: Fromia milleporella (Lamarck, 1816)
Detail of a small Thousand-pores starfish, Fromia milleporella, as it crawls on a reef in Indonesia.
Starfish, Fromia milleporella, Coron Island Philippines.Red Fromia Starfish - Fromia milleporella

General information

The Red Starfish, Fromia milleporella, is a striking marine invertebrate known for its vibrant red color and tile-like pattern. This sea star is not only a beautiful addition to the reef aquarium but also serves as a fascinating subject for study due to its regenerative abilities, being able to regrow lost arms.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys detritus, small organisms
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Echinoderms
    Echinodermata
  3. Class
    Starfish
    Asteroidea
  4. Order
    Starfish
    Valvatida
  5. Family
    Sea Stars
    Goniasteridae
  6. Genus
    Fromia Starfish
    Fromia
  7. Species
    Red Starfish
    Fromia milleporella (Lamarck, 1816)
  8. Synonyms
    Asterias milleporella Lamarck, 1816
    Fromia pistoria (Müller & Troschel, 1842)
    Linckia milleporella Müller & Troschel, 1842
    Linckia pistoria (Müller & Troschel, 1842)
    Scytaster milleporellus Michelin, 1845
    Scytaster pistorius Müller & Troschel, 1842

Care

Fromia milleporella requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and a stable environment. They are sensitive to changes in water quality and require a gradual acclimation process when introduced to a new tank. A varied diet consisting of meaty foods, such as finely chopped shrimp, mussel, and other marine-based proteins, is essential for their health.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Fromia milleporella typically involves the release of gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but hobbyists can encourage reproduction by maintaining excellent water quality and providing a stress-free environment.

Habitat

Fromia milleporella is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and rocky substrates. They are usually seen at depths where light is sufficient for the growth of benthic algae and small organisms that they feed on.