Family
Common name: Starfish
Scientific name: Asteriidae
Asteriidae is a family of echinoderms that includes many popular starfish species found in home aquariums. Members of this family are known for their classic star shape, with multiple arms radiating from a central disc. They are generally hardy and can be beneficial in controlling populations of invertebrates that may become pests, such as small snails or bivalves. However, some species may prey on corals or slow-moving fish, so it's important to research individual species before adding them to a reef tank. They exhibit fascinating behaviors such as regenerating lost arms and have a unique feeding mechanism where they can extrude their stomachs to digest food externally.