Common name: Egyptian sea star

General information

The Egyptian Feather Star, Gomophia egyptiaca, is a species of crinoid, a type of echinoderm that is related to sea urchins and starfish. Crinoids are characterized by their feather-like arms which they use for suspension feeding. Gomophia egyptiaca is known for its striking appearance and the way it elegantly unfurls its arms in the water column to capture plankton.

Care

Keeping crinoids in a home aquarium can be challenging due to their specific feeding requirements. They are suspension feeders and need a constant supply of fine particulate food, such as phytoplankton or specially formulated liquid foods. Strong water flow is also essential to mimic their natural habitat and facilitate feeding.

Reproduction

Crinoids reproduce both sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, they release sperm and eggs into the water column, where fertilization occurs. Asexual reproduction can occur through arm regeneration if an arm is broken off; it can potentially grow into a new individual.

Symbiosis

Gomophia egyptiaca does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships that are of particular interest to the aquarium hobby. However, in the wild, crinoids can host a variety of small organisms that seek refuge among their arms.

Habitat

This species is found in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. They typically inhabit coral reefs and can be found at various depths, often attaching themselves to substrates with their flexible, cirri-covered stalks.