Asterina Starfish ID

[mjw011689]

does anyone know the species of asterina star this is? I know most say they’re ok, but I’ve had a ton of zoas eaten recently, and I’ve had an explosion of these guys. Some research shows there are some types of asterinas that are not safe and I’m wondering if that’s what I’ve got going on. As far as I remember, the white ones are safe, but these are not the white ones. At least not all

 

[Gumbies R Us]

@ISpeakForTheSeas

 

[Fish Fan]

Here's a post from ISpeakForTheSeas on these little stars:
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/mystery-star.1162489/post-14413469

The darker colored ones are often said to be the kind that eat zoas. If you're losing Zoas and/or your seeing these stars in and around your Zoas, I'd be concerned.

Good luck!

 

[EnterName]

As far as I know it's impossible to even distinguish Asterina from Aquilonastra starfish without microscope images. It will be really difficult (if not impossible) to name the species. I had brigher and darker ones eat Zoa polyps which is why I take them out as soon as I see them.

In severe cases you will need to get a Harlequin shrimp. This means you cannot have any starfish in your tank and once there aren't enough anymore, you will need to feed it or pass it onto the next reefer with the same issue.

 

[mjw011689]

Yep I’ve already got one. I’m actually going to add more because he’s not even making a dent. It’s a 125, there’s plenty. FWIW, I did some research on harlequins and it seems they’re safe with brittle stars, which i can confirm. He doesn’t touch mine.

 

[mjw011689]

Also, thanks for all the info!