Blue Linckia Starfish (Linckia laevigata)

The Blue Linckia Starfish is one of the most stunning and popular starfish in the marine aquarium hobby, known for its vibrant blue color and graceful presence. This starfish adds a pop of color to any aquarium while quietly foraging on algae and biofilm on rock surfaces. The Blue Linckia is generally hardy but requires a mature, well-established tank with stable parameters, making it best suited for experienced aquarists.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 12 inches in diameter.
• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum; a spacious tank with ample live rock is necessary to provide sufficient grazing surface.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on biofilm, microalgae, and small organisms on live rock. Supplemental feedings of algae wafers or finely chopped seafood can be beneficial if natural food sources are limited.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Blue Linckia Starfish is non-aggressive and coexists well with a variety of tankmates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates.
• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced; the Blue Linckia Starfish is sensitive to changes in water quality and requires careful acclimation. Stability is crucial for its long-term health, as fluctuations can lead to deterioration.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, making it an excellent addition to reef tanks.

Special Feature - Vibrant Blue Coloration
The Blue Linckia Starfish is renowned for its intense blue color, making it a vibrant focal point in any aquarium. Its unique hue and graceful movement across rocks add both visual appeal and a natural touch to a well-established reef setup.

Compatibility
This starfish is peaceful and compatible with most tankmates. It is best suited to established reef tanks, where it has sufficient rock surfaces to forage. Avoid housing it with aggressive invertebrate-eating fish, such as large puffers or triggers, which may harm it.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Blue Linckia Starfish is known for its brilliant blue coloration, occasionally featuring subtle variations in hue. This striking color makes it highly sought-after among aquarists looking to add a unique splash of color to their tanks​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, especially in coral reef areas with ample rockwork, where it grazes on biofilm and algae. The Blue Linckia thrives in mature tanks with stable parameters and plenty of live rock for feeding and exploration​.