Common name: Red Starfish
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumEchinodermsEchinodermata
- ClassStarfishAsteroidea
- OrderStarfishValvatida
- FamilySea StarsGoniasteridae
- GenusFromia StarfishFromia
- SpeciesRed StarfishFromia milleporella (Lamarck, 1816)
- SynonymsAsterias milleporella Lamarck, 1816Fromia pistoria (Müller & Troschel, 1842)Linckia milleporella Müller & Troschel, 1842Linckia pistoria (Müller & Troschel, 1842)Scytaster milleporellus Michelin, 1845Scytaster 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.