Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean

Natural Environment: Inhabits areas of heavy coral growth in shallow coastal areas

General Husbandry: Has a temperature range of 75 to 83°F (24 - 28°C). This small Star, less than 1 inch (2 cm) seems to have come from Fiji on live rock. It's a predatory star that eats sps, soft coral, and coralline algae. They are large bodied and sometimes visible where aquarium side panels meet the substrate when the lights dim and/or hide under corals during day. They divide across the main body with two or three legs of various lengths. Even though there is some thought there may be 'safe' similar looking members in this family, I'd rather remove these stars as they quickly multiply! It is said the Nardoa species, such as N. rosea may consume these pests. Also, the Harlequin shrimp Hymenocera elegans, will consume them.