Red Fromia Sea Star - Medium

The Red Fromia Starfish has colouration which ranges from orange to red. It has a darker pattern over the top, giving it the marble effect, which makes it stand out. Youngsters are often brighter and may have black tips on their arms. Their colour can become duller as they mature.

Identifying the sex of this species is difficult when looking for visual differences. This may be a reason why it isn't common for Red Fromia Starfish to reproduce in an aquarium environment. Another reason could be that they have a shorter lifespan if they are in captivity.

This species is native to the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. They can be found around Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Japan, Australia, and Fiji. Their natural environment is on reefs or in lagoons. Usually at depths of between 1.5-10 meters, although they can be as deep as 25 meters.

Tank Recommendations for your Red Fromia Starfish

Red Fromia Starfish should be housed in a tank that is at least 30 gallons (113.5 liters) per starfish. You should increase this space if there is more than one starfish as they will compete for food.

This species is considered reef safe. They need a mature stable tank environment, as they are sensitive to water changes. Temperature, salinity, and pH variations can be detrimental to them. As a result, they need a long acclimation period before being introduced to a tank.

It is most beneficial to introduce Red Fromia Starfish to a tank that has been established for at least 1 year. This type of tank will contain microorganisms and alga which are part of the Red Fromias diet. A suitable tank should also have plenty of live rock,

Suitable Tank Buddies

Red Fromia Starfish are a peaceful species, if a tank is large enough, they can co-habit with their own kind.

Their preferable environment is with non-aggressive fish. Predators and fish that nip should be closely monitored or avoided altogether.

Usually Compatible

Suitable tank buddies include, Anthias, Basslets, Chromis, Dartfish, Pseudochromis and Tangs.

Sometime Compatible

Care should be taken with Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Foxface/Rabbitfish, Lionfish/Scorpionfish and Wrasse.

Rarely Compatible

Avoid Harlequin Shrimp, Triggerfish, Pufferfish, Sharks/Rays, Parrotfish and Filefish.

Feeding your Fromia Red Starfish

Fromia Red Starfish are omnivores. They are scavengers and will move around the tank consuming microorganisms and detritus. Their diet also needs supplementing with finely chopped mussels, shrimp or flake food.