Common name: Cushion Stars

Oreasteridae is a family of sea stars that are particularly fascinating due to their robust and often vividly colored appearances. Members of this family are typically found in tropical and subtropical marine environments, especially in the Indo-Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean. These sea stars are known for their thick, often pentagonal bodies with short, stout arms, making them quite distinct from the more commonly seen slender-armed starfish. The family’s characteristic plump, cushion-like appearance in many species gives them the common name cushion stars.

One of the most well-known species within this family is the Oreaster reticulatus, which is notable for its large size and vibrant colors ranging from red and orange to yellow and brown. These sea stars are often found on sandy or seagrass-covered bottoms, where they play a crucial ecological role as detritivores, feeding on organic matter and helping to recycle nutrients within the ecosystem.

For reef aquarium enthusiasts, Oreasteridae can be a striking addition due to their unique shapes and colors. However, they require specific care to thrive in captivity. These sea stars need a well-established tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They also require stable water parameters and should be introduced to a mature aquarium to ensure enough natural food sources are available. It's important to note that while they are generally peaceful, their feeding habits can sometimes disturb coral arrangements or smaller invertebrates in the tank.

Scientifically, Oreasteridae are interesting due to their regenerative abilities, which allow them to recover from injuries by regrowing lost arms. This regenerative capacity is a subject of study for understanding cellular regeneration and healing processes. Their unique morphology and ecological roles make them a subject of interest not only for hobbyists but also for marine biologists studying biodiversity and marine ecosystems.

1. 
   Common name: Granulated Sea Star

   Scientific name: Choriaster granulatus
2. 
   Common name: pin-cushion sea star

   Scientific name: Culcita novaeguineae
3. 
   Common name: cushion star

   Scientific name: Culcita schmideliana
4. 
   Common name: red cushion sea star

   Scientific name: Oreaster reticulatus
5. 
   Common name: Knobby Sea Star

   Scientific name: Pentaceraster mammillatus
6. 
   Common name: Red-knobbed Starfish

   Scientific name: Protoreaster lincki
7. 
   Common name: Chocolate Chip Sea Star

   Scientific name: Protoreaster nodosus