Blue Linckia Starfish (Linckia laevigata) Care Guide
An iconic bright blue starfish and one of the most recognizable marine invertebrates. Despite popularity, it has a poor survival rate in captivity due to sensitivity to water quality and a need for la…
Overview
Linckia laevigata is a species in the family Ophidiasteridae. An iconic bright blue starfish and one of the most recognizable marine invertebrates. Despite popularity, it has a poor survival rate in captivity due to sensitivity to water quality and a need for large amounts of biofilm from mature live rock. Only for well-established tanks over 1 year old.
Taxonomy
- Family: Ophidiasteridae
- Genus: Linckia
- Scientific name: Linckia laevigata
- Other names: Blue Star
- Origin: Indo-Pacific
Habitat
Linckia laevigata is a bright blue starfish of Indo-Pacific reefs. It grazes biofilm and microorganisms from hard surfaces, is highly sensitive to shifts in salinity and water quality, and needs very slow drip acclimation into a large, established reef.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
- KH: 8-12 dKH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 15-30 cm
- Lifespan: 2-5 years
- Difficulty: advanced
Diet
Classified as detritivore. Recommended feeding frequency: grazer. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Most Reef Fish, Corals
- Avoid with: Harlequin Shrimp, Pufferfish
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.