Genus

Common name: Sand Sifting Starfish

Scientific name: Archaster

Archaster is a genus of sea stars commonly known as Sand Sifting Starfish. These starfish are popular in reef aquariums for their ability to consume large amounts of detritus and uneaten food, thereby helping to maintain a clean sand bed. They are characterized by their five arms and a grey to brown coloration, blending well with sandy environments. Hobbyists should note that they require a well-established tank with a deep sand bed to thrive, as they feed on microorganisms and organic matter within the substrate.

  1. Sand Sifting Sea Star - (Astropecten polycanthus)
    Common name: Sand Sifting Starfish
    Scientific name: Archaster angulatus
  2. sand sifting starfish (archaster typicus) moving through the glass of a reef aquarium
    Common name: Indo-Pacific Beach Star
    Scientific name: Archaster typicus