Common name: velvety sea star

General information

The Blue Linckia Starfish, Leiaster speciosus, is a striking marine invertebrate known for its vibrant blue coloration and unique star-shaped body. It is a popular species among reef aquarium hobbyists due to its beauty and the role it plays in the ecosystem of a reef tank. This species is often confused with Linckia laevigata, but can be distinguished by its deeper blue hue and slightly different body texture.

Care

Caring for a Blue Linckia Starfish requires a well-established reef aquarium with stable water conditions. They are sensitive to rapid changes in water parameters, so gradual acclimation is crucial when introducing them to a new tank. They thrive in environments with plenty of live rock and a mature microfauna population, as they feed on the film of algae and microorganisms that grow on the rocks.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Leiaster speciosus is both sexual and asexual. In the wild, they can reproduce by broadcasting gametes into the water column during spawning events. In the aquarium, they may also reproduce asexually through fragmentation, where a part of the starfish's body breaks off and regenerates into a new individual. This method of reproduction can be a fascinating process to observe in a home aquarium.

Habitat

Blue Linckia Starfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow waters on coral reefs or sandy bottoms. They are often seen in a range of depths from the intertidal zone to deeper waters. In the aquarium, they require ample space to roam and a variety of surfaces to explore.