Highlights

• Species: Commonly sold as Sand Sifting Sea Star (Astropecten polyacanthus).

• Size: Can reach up to 8 inches in diameter.

• Appearance: Typically tan, gray, or mottled, blending well with sandy substrates.

• Behavior:

  • Burrows beneath the sand, constantly moving and sifting.

  • Helps oxygenate substrate and reduce detritus buildup.

• Diet: Carnivorous/omnivorous scavenger, feeding on detritus, leftover food, and small invertebrates.

• Temperament: Peaceful, reef-safe, but may deplete microfauna in smaller tanks.

• Tank Requirements:

  • Needs a large, established aquarium (75+ gallons) with a mature sand bed.

  • Water conditions: 72–78°F, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.023–1.025