Multicolor Sea Star

About

The multicolor sea star (Linckia multifora) is one of the more visually interesting sea stars you'll come across in the marine hobby, and for good reason. No two individuals look quite the same. Where its close relative Linckia laevigata is known for solid blue coloration, this species shows a mottled mix of reds, pinks, oranges, and tans scattered across its arms in patterns that vary from animal to animal. Found across Indo-Pacific reef environments, it tends to occupy shallow reef flats and rubble zones where it moves slowly across hard substrate in search of food. Like other Linckia species, it feeds primarily on surface films of microorganisms, detritus, and algae, making it a natural scavenger on the reef. In the aquarium it carries a beginner-friendly reputation compared to many other sea stars, though that doesn't mean it can be rushed through acclimation. Slow, drip acclimation is important for any echinoderm since they are sensitive to sudden shifts in salinity. It does best in a mature reef tank with plenty of live rock to graze on. One of its more remarkable traits is a strong capacity for autotomy and regeneration, with detached arm segments sometimes developing into entirely new animals.