Small Starfish a Problem?

[Overboard]

I have developed a large population of small starfish in my DT. Could they possibly be detrimental to my SPS? They have different shapes, but generally have 6 arms, are a pale white/gray color, and only 3/8 - 1/2 inch in size. I have only seen them on a coral one or two times, but my acros are mediocre at best. PE is generally poor even though parameters test ok. Thinking it might be the guys. I have seen some threads along that line.

Thanks for the input.

Mark

 

[smtank]

I suspect Asterina, but without an image? It's uncommon for hobbyist to acquire coral eating varieties but not unheard of. I imagine your polyp extension issue is related to something else unless you are seeing obvious tissue damage.

What fish types do you have?

 

[Overboard]

Can't say I have noticed any tissue damage that is obviously from the starfish. Biggest issue is a lack of PE and good coloration. Looking for a solution and I ran across some threads on the starfish.


One fish suspect....juvenile emperor. Watch him like a hawk though and have never seen even a single nip. Had the PE issue before the emperor. Still, I may try moving him to quarantine to see what happens.


Thanks fro the input.

 

[scolley]

Are these sea stars solid, stiff bodied, like the aforementioned Asterina's? Or are do they have thin, little flexible arms - a form of mini serpent or mini brittle? If it's the latter, I'd be stunned if they were your problem. Those mini serpents are a blessing - not a curse - in a reef tank.

 

[trueblackpercula]

I have hundreds of them in my main display tank and are algea feeders.

 

[Jcreefer1]

Not a problem.....

 

[reefinsomnia]

Get a Harlequin Shrimp to control the population