Blue Finger Starfish

The Blue Finger Starfish is certain to be the shining star for the dedicated reef aquarium enthusiast. The unusual blue colour of this starfish is truly remarkable and this standout colour makes this starfish a beautiful focal point. Its bright blue body may sometimes be embellished with red or purplish spots.

In the wild, the Blue Finger Starfish is found in the sunny areas of the reef and reef fringe, constantly foraging for food. In the home aquarium setting, the Blue Finger Starfish prefers a well-lit sandy or coral rubble substrate, with many rocky hiding places. As a juvenile, the Blue Finger Starfish 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 Finger Starfish is generally solitary, but it will tolerate other starfish and amiable fish in the aquarium. The Blue Finger Starfish 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 Starfish due to their intolerance to changes in water chemistry.

The Blue Finger Starfish 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 Finger Starfish 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 pellet food can be placed under the Blue Finger Starfish to supplement its diet.