Livingstone’s Sea Star (Neoferdina Insolita)

The Livingstone’s Sea Star is a rare and visually stunning species, distinguished by its unique pattern of contrasting colors and intricate textures. Its hard, calcified body is decorated with a blend of brown, red, and cream markings, making it a standout addition to any reef or fish-only tank. This sea star is both peaceful and hardy but requires a stable, mature aquarium with ample live rock and a sandy substrate for foraging. Ideal for intermediate aquarists, the Livingstone’s Sea Star contributes to the cleanup crew by feeding on detritus and biofilm.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 6 inches in diameter.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; requires a tank with a mature substrate and live rock for grazing.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on detritus, biofilm, and algae. Supplemental feedings of small meaty foods or algae wafers can be offered if natural food sources are scarce.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; non-aggressive and highly compatible with other invertebrates, fish, and corals.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; while hardy, it requires a mature, stable tank environment to thrive.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, making it an excellent addition to reef tanks.

Special Feature - Detritus Removal
The Livingstone’s Sea Star helps maintain a clean tank by grazing on detritus and biofilm, contributing to a balanced ecosystem. Its natural scavenging behavior makes it a valuable member of the cleanup crew in any setup.

Compatibility
This sea star is peaceful and suitable for reef or fish-only tanks with compatible tankmates. Avoid housing it with aggressive fish or invertebrates that may prey on it, such as certain triggerfish or puffers.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Livingstone’s Sea Star showcases a unique pattern of browns, reds, and creams, creating an intricate, textured appearance that adds visual interest to the tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly in reef and sandy environments where it grazes on detritus and algae. In aquariums, it thrives in tanks with stable conditions and ample surfaces for foraging.