Common name: Sand Sifting Starfish

Astropectinidae, commonly known as Sand Sifting Starfish or Comb Starfish, is a family of sea stars characterized by their ability to burrow into sandy substrates. They play a crucial role in the aquarium by consuming detritus and aerating the sand bed, which helps prevent the buildup of harmful gases and promotes a healthy environment for other inhabitants. Members of this family are generally hardy and can adapt to a range of conditions, but they require a deep sand bed to thrive and exhibit natural behaviors. They are fascinating to observe as they uncover food items with their unique movement.

1. Common name: Anderson's Sand Star

   Scientific name: Astropecten andersoni
2. 
   Common name: Royal Starfish

   Scientific name: Astropecten aranciacus
3. 
   Common name: Bispinosus Sand Star

   Scientific name: Astropecten bispinosus
4. 
   Common name: Sand Sifting Starfish

   Scientific name: Astropecten jonstoni
5. 
   Common name: comb star

   Scientific name: Astropecten polyacanthus