Blue Linckia Starfish Medium
The Blue Linckia Starfish is one of the most iconic marine invertebrates in the reef aquarium hobby. Instantly recognisable by its vivid blue colour and slow, graceful movement, this starfish adds a striking natural feature to established marine aquariums.
Also known as Linckia laevigata, the Blue Linckia is a peaceful, reef-safe starfish that can move across rockwork, glass, and substrate as it grazes. Its bold blue colour makes it a standout display animal, especially in mature reef tanks with plenty of live rock and open viewing areas.
This is a medium-sized Blue Linckia Starfish, making it a great option for suitable established aquariums with enough space, surface area, and natural grazing available.
Blue Linckia Starfish are best suited to mature reef systems, not new or unstable tanks. They rely heavily on natural biofilm, micro-organisms, sponges, and other grazing material found on established live rock. Because of this, they should only be added to aquariums that have been running long enough to support a strong natural ecosystem.
Feeding can be challenging, as many Blue Linckias do not readily accept prepared foods. Some individuals may take small meaty offerings, but they should not be relied on as the main food source. A healthy, mature reef with plenty of live rock is the key to long-term success.
Care Level: Advanced
Type: Marine Starfish
Size: Medium
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Placement: Rockwork, glass, and substrate
Diet: Natural biofilm, microfauna, sponges, and organic films
Tank Suitability: Mature, stable reef aquariums
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Blue Linckia Starfish are highly sensitive to changes in salinity, pH, and water quality. Slow drip acclimation is strongly recommended, and they should be kept submerged during transfer wherever possible. Exposure to air and rapid parameter changes can cause serious stress.
They are generally safe with corals and peaceful reef fish, but should not be kept with aggressive crabs, puffers, triggers, large wrasses, or fish and invertebrates that may nip at their tube feet. Care should also be taken with uncovered pumps, overflows, and wavemakers, as starfish can wander into unsafe areas.
A healthy Blue Linckia should appear firm and full, with intact arms and active tube feet. Avoid placing them in ultra-clean or recently established systems, as a lack of natural grazing can lead to slow decline over time.
For experienced reef keepers with a stable, mature aquarium, the Blue Linckia Starfish is a premium display invertebrate that adds incredible colour, movement, and authentic reef character.
