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Invertebrates |  |
Phylum: Echinodermata, Class: Echinoidea
Range: Caribbean
Size: 24 in. Space:: 300+ gal. Diet: Zooplankton
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Peaceful
Natural History: The Basket Star is a filter feeder that uses its subdivided arms to catch food at night. By day it crawls into an inconspicuous area and hides to avoid predation. At night it crawls out, extends its arms, and strains the water for food.
Husbandry: If insufficient plankton is available to the Basket Star, other foods must be offered or it will starve. Very large aquariums are required to allow the animal to fully extend its arms and catch food.