Question about a star fish

[Hebert2580]

I have star fish,. Not sure what kind it is but Is about 3 in round and its ornage with small black dots,. anyways in not sure whats going on with it but on one of its legs it seems to have a hole with something comming out, like little legs or something, not sure what it is,. Has anyone everseen this before? does anyone have anyclue what this could be? PLease help.. Thankls

[Yankee I Am]

Picture?

[reefhead]

It sounds like your starfish is having a cloning experience.

More Information

[NaCl2+H2O]

I was hoping to hear more on this. My sea star did the exct same thing today. I thought maybe one of my Hermit crabs attacked it.

[greenbean36191]

It sounds like they're dying. When sea stars starve or are injured by osmotic changes they start to dissolve and their innards become outtards.

I would venture a guess that your star is Fromia. Their diet is unknown, and as a result they tend to slowly starve to death over about a year or two.

[NaCl2+H2O]

Unfortunately, I believe you are right. It was pretty stupid to dive in just because of the "wow, that's cool" factor.
I think I'll stick to common species that we know how to take of.
Thanks for your help.

[FireEater]

Yes, very few systems can support Linckia/Fromia species stars. I happen to be one of the lucky ones.

My systems runs about 285g of water total throughout. I have lots of live rock in the refugium, sump and main tank. it has been running for about 4 years now. Plus so many other variables come into play.

My website is down right now in my signature link, though for some it still works. I'm in the process of changing web hosts.

HERE is a link to the small linckia species that I found in my main tank. Never did figure out where it came from. I've seen it quite a few times within the last week and it has grown some more. I need to update the thread with new pics.

I also have a Fromia species that is doing great and growing.


Here it is eating as you can see it's stomach out.


You really need a mature system to support one of these stars. They sell like hotcakes because of the pretty colors but starve to death in most systems. It's a shame that the only factor that comes into play for these creatures is the money factor.

I've stopped a few people from buying them at the local LFS right in front of the workers. I simply tell them the truth about what they are getting into when they buy one.

[ret25yo]

please realize that many stars are actually carnivors(ex.sand sifting starfish )