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Invertebrates |  |
Phylum: Echinodermata, Class: Asteroidea
Range: Indian and Pacific Oceans
Size: 5 in. Space:: 100+ gal. Diet: sponges, algae, molluscs (including Tridacna, urchins, anemones
Reef Safe: No Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Natural History: The Red Spined Starfish is an echinoderm that has tube feet for crawling and catching prey. It is commonly found in sandy areas on seagrass beds. It controls its tube feet with an internal water vascular hydraulic system. The Protoreaster are reported to eat sponges, corals, and sea anemones. This starfish has stiff arms that prevent it from crawling into tight spaces as other starfish can.
Husbandry: The Red Spined Starfish is not safe with anemones, sponges, and clams - it will eat them. It can be fed chopped clams and squid. This species is reported to be difficult to feed.
AKA: African Red Knobby Starfish