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Starfish in the aquarium

Fascinating invertebrates but often difficult to keep in captivity. Serpentine stars are the most suitable for the reef.

Detailed explanation

Serpentine stars (Ophiuridae) are best for the reef: small, discreet, excellent nocturnal scavengers. The micro-serpentines of live rock are precious.

The stars Fromia and Linckia are beautiful but delicate. They require very long acclimatization (2-3 hours by drop) and very stable aquariums.

Asterina stars reproduce spontaneously in mature aquariums. They are mostly harmless but some eat corals.

The Chocolate Chip Starfish (Protoreaster nodosus) is NOT reef safe: it eats corals.

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