Red Fromia Starfish - Fromia milleporella

Red Fromia Starfish - Fromia milleporella

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The Red Fromia Starfish (Fromia milleporella) is a beautiful and vibrant starfish species known for its striking red coloration and unique patterns. This starfish adds a stunning focal point to saltwater aquariums and is admired for both its aesthetic appeal and its role in maintaining the health of the reef tank.


Description:

Common Name: Red Fromia Starfish, Red Fromia

Scientific Name: Fromia milleporella

Family: Ophidiasteridae

Size: Typically grows to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in diameter.

Coloration: The Red Fromia Starfish features a striking red body with orange or yellowish patterns on its arms. These colors make it a vibrant and eye-catching addition to any reef aquarium.

Lifespan: In the right conditions, the Red Fromia Starfish can live for several years in a well-maintained reef tank.


Native Region:

The Red Fromia Starfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the coasts of Indonesia, the Philippines, and other parts of the South Pacific. It is typically found in coral reefs, where it feeds on detritus and organic matter.


Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons (114 liters) is recommended to provide enough space for the starfish to roam and forage. Larger tanks with established live rock are ideal.

Substrate: Sand or fine gravel is preferable, as Fromia milleporella often feeds on detritus and microorganisms found in the substrate.

Live Rock: Live rock is essential in providing hiding spots and grazing surfaces for the starfish, as it feeds on detritus and small invertebrates found on rock surfaces.


Water Parameters:

Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)

pH: 8.1-8.4

Salinity: 1.022-1.025 specific gravity

Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

Calcium: 380-450 ppm

Nitrate: Keep nitrate levels below 10 ppm to prevent stress on the starfish.

Phosphate: Low phosphate levels are crucial for maintaining the health of the Red Fromia Starfish and the reef ecosystem.


Care Level:

Difficulty: Moderate. The Red Fromia Starfish requires stable water parameters and a well-established tank with plenty of live rock to thrive. They are sensitive to changes in water quality and are not suitable for newly set-up aquariums.

Diet: The Red Fromia Starfish is a detritivore, meaning it feeds on detritus, microorganisms, and small organic matter found on rocks, sand, and in the aquarium. It can also help control algae by feeding on detritus that accumulates in the tank.

Behavior: The Red Fromia Starfish is a slow-moving, peaceful species. It can be seen slowly crawling across rocks or the substrate in search of food. It is non-aggressive and typically doesn’t interact with other tank inhabitants unless there is competition for food.


Reef Compatibility:

Reef-Safe: Yes, the Red Fromia Starfish is reef-safe and will not harm corals or other invertebrates. It is a beneficial addition to a reef tank, helping to clean up detritus and maintain tank hygiene.

Tank Mates: It is compatible with most reef-safe fish, snails, and other invertebrates. However, it should not be kept with aggressive species that may harm it, such as large fish or predatory species.

Avoid: Avoid keeping the Red Fromia Starfish with species that might compete for food, such as other large detritivores, and avoid any species that may try to prey on the starfish.


Tank Maintenance:

Feeding: While the Red Fromia Starfish feeds on detritus and microorganisms, you may need to supplement its diet with special foods for starfish, such as mashed fish or invertebrate foods. In aquariums with limited detritus, supplemental feeding ensures its health and survival.

Water Quality: The Red Fromia Starfish is sensitive to poor water quality. Regular maintenance, including water changes and proper filtration, is essential to keep the tank’s water parameters stable and suitable for the starfish.


Additional Tips:

Acclimation: When introducing the Red Fromia Starfish to your aquarium, it’s important to acclimate it slowly to the water conditions to avoid stress. Drip acclimation is a recommended method to help with the transition.

Molting: Starfish do not molt, but they can regenerate lost limbs if the conditions are right. If they lose an arm, it can grow back over time, but this process can take several months.


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