Maldive Starfish

Fromia species appear to do well in larger mature aquariums. This is probably because there is an availability of sponges and small sessile animals for them to eat but they do not do well in less mature aquariums.

Common Name(s): Maldive Starfish, Elegant Sea Star, Thorny Sea Star, Knotted Brittle Star
Scientific/Other Name(s) : Fromia nodosa
Care Level : Hard
Maximum Size: 4 -5"
Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Reef Safe: Yes
Feeding Requirements: Generally scavengers but occasional feedings of shrimp pellets or fish/shrimp flesh and sponge eating angelfish food is also recommended
Temperament / Behavior:
Other Comments:

Fromia nodosa is dark red to a blackish orange. It has a number of scattered plates on the the arms but these will be contrasting in colour.

Fromia species appear to do well in larger mature aquariums. This is probably because there is an availability of sponges and small sessile animals for them to eat but they do not do well in less mature aquariums.

So far they appear to be reef safe and good scavengers of detritus, microalgae, small benthic invertebrates and other organic matter within the aquarium.

They are notoriously difficult to keep alive in an aquarium environment for a long period of time so although target feeding is likely to be unsuccessful it should be attempted. They will often live for a year or so and then may die of malnutrition.

Acclimate very slowly, adding water from its new system to its shipping water in small amounts over a period of several hours