Little Shop of Coral
Blue Linckia Starfish (Linckia sp.)
Blue Linckia Starfish (Linckia sp.)
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The Blue Linckia Starfish is one of the most iconic display sea stars in the hobby, known for its rich blue colour and smooth, elegant shape. It is peaceful and reef safe with corals, but it is also a specialized feeder that relies heavily on mature live rock and a stable system. This species is best suited for experienced keepers with established aquariums where it can graze naturally over time.
Why we love it
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Stunning blue coloration and a classic sea star look
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Peaceful reef display invert with unique movement
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Great “wow” factor for large, mature reef tanks
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Interesting to watch as it slowly grazes across rockwork
Care and Compatibility
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution
Diet: Specialized grazer (biofilm and microorganisms on live rock)
Adult Size: ~8 to 12"
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons recommended (100g+ ideal)
Feeding (Very Important)
Blue Linckia starfish do not usually accept typical foods reliably. They survive by grazing naturally in mature tanks.
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Best in established systems with abundant live rock and natural biofilm
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Supplemental feeding may not be effective, so do not rely on target feeding alone
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Long-term success depends on the tank having enough natural grazing available
This is not a good fit for newer tanks or very clean systems with limited natural food.
Tank and Setup Notes
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Best in mature reefs, often 9 to 12 months or older
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Keep salinity and temperature extremely stable, sea stars are sensitive to swings
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Avoid rapid changes in pH and alkalinity
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Never use copper-based medications in a system with sea stars
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Avoid long air exposure during transfer when possible
Compatibility Tips
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Safe with corals and most reef inverts
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Avoid predators like triggers and puffers that may bite arms
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Use caution with harlequin shrimp, which may prey on sea stars
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Not recommended in tanks where it will be frequently disturbed or outcompeted for space
Acclimation and Health
Slow drip acclimation is strongly recommended. This species can be sensitive during shipping and introduction, and it may decline weeks later if the tank does not provide enough natural food. Stable parameters and a mature system are the keys to long-term success.
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LIGHT
LOW: Place coral at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type, coral may need to be placed off sand and therefore mounted on a ceramic disc of piece of rock.
MEDIUM: Place coral at mid-range of the tank. Best placed/glued on top of a rock scape at mid-range height.
HIGH: Place coral from mid range to just below water level. SPS coral are shallow growing so they require and are able to tolerate intense light.
FLOW
LOW: Most soft coral do well with a small, gentle pulse. There are certain corals that can even be placed in areas of indirect flow, meaning places aside a rock structure or set into a entrance to a cave style space.
MEDIUM: Many LPS types of coral prefer medium pulse current. Most Euphyllia or corals that have more tissue structure connected to their skeleton, don’t like to be in a high flow area like the direct flow of the wave pump.
HIGH: Similar to high light, SPS enjoy being in some heavy current. Most LPS and SPS that branch encrust or plate prefer high flow that simulates the top water waves.
SKILL
ENTRY: While some may say beginner level, "Entry" is a good term to be used when starting out in the world of corals and marine life. Prior to adding livestock, you want to ensure that your reef has the proper parameters including zero levels of ammonia and nitrite. Seeing traces of nitrate in your waters is a good sign - just keep them at a lower level of 2ppm to 10ppm. Maintaining correct temperature and salinity are a huge factor to stable parameters. Starting to monitor your PH, alkalinity, calcium and magnesium is a great habit to get into to keep a successful reef.
While some soft coral don’t require too much light, having a proper reef light that puts out the proper pars is very important. You'll also want to have a good amount of flow and protected rock areas, as placing corals in their happy spot is ideal for success.
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