Linckia Sea Star, Blue

In the wild, the Blue Linckia Sea Star is found in the sunny areas of the reef and reef fringe, constantly foraging for food. In the home aquarium setting, the Blue Linckia Sea Star prefers a well-lit sandy or coral rubble substrate, with many rocky hiding places. As a juvenile (when it has a blue-green coloration), the Blue Linckia Sea Star spends most of the day hiding in small caves or overhangs. As a larger adult, it can be seen anchored to the rocks or glass, waving one or two arms in the water, searching for small, free-floating microbes. The Blue Linckia Sea Star is generally solitary, but it will tolerate other starfish and amiable fish in the aquarium.

The Blue Linckia Sea Star is very intolerant of sudden changes in oxygen levels, salinity and pH of the water, and cannot tolerate copper-based medications. The drip-acclimation method is highly recommended for all Sea Stars due to their intolerance to changes in water chemistry. The Blue Linckia Sea Star should never be exposed to air while handling, and should be carefully monitored for the presence of a small parasitic snail, Thyca crystallina. In the wild, the Blue Linckia Sea Star is capable of regenerating a new starfish from almost any portion of its body that might break off. In the home aquarium, this is far less likely.

Small pieces of clam meat or tablets can be placed under the Blue Linckia Sea Star starfish to supplement its diet.