Double Sea Star (Iconaster longimanus)

The Double Sea Star, also known as the Double Starfish or Icon Sea Star, is a unique and beautifully patterned sea star known for its distinct double ring pattern. Its orange or reddish-brown body with a lighter central ring makes it an attractive and eye-catching addition to marine aquariums. This peaceful starfish is generally easy to care for in a mature reef tank with ample live rock and sand, where it can forage for detritus and small organisms.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 6 inches in diameter.
• Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; a tank with live rock and sandy substrate is ideal for grazing and exploring.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on detritus, biofilm, and algae found on live rock and sand. It may benefit from supplemental feedings of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp or sinking pellets, if natural food sources are limited.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Double Sea Star is non-aggressive and coexists well with fish, corals, and other invertebrates in a reef tank.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; relatively hardy but requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and natural food sources.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; it does not harm corals or other invertebrates, making it an excellent choice for peaceful reef tanks.

Special Feature - Distinctive Double Ring Pattern
The Double Sea Star is known for its unique and vibrant pattern, with a light central disc encircled by a darker outer ring. This striking design, combined with its peaceful behavior, makes it an appealing addition to marine tanks, adding visual interest and natural activity.

Compatibility
The Double Sea Star is compatible with most peaceful tankmates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. It is a beneficial addition to reef tanks, as it helps to keep surfaces clean by consuming detritus and algae.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Double Sea Star has a characteristic orange to reddish-brown body with a lighter, cream-colored central ring, giving it its distinctive "double star" appearance. This color contrast adds a unique aesthetic to the aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly in coral reef environments with sandy and rocky substrates, where it can graze on biofilm and detritus. It thrives in stable, mature tanks with plenty of live rock and sand for foraging.