Double Sea Star

Iconaster longimanus

Identification	Striking geometric orange and white lattice patterning on a rounded central disc. Five arms with a slightly webbed, mosaic appearance. One of the most visually impressive reef starfish.
Maximum Length	Up to 10 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size	50 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Generally reef safe

Behavior

Beautiful but notoriously difficult to keep long-term. Tends to gradually decline in captivity without specialized feeding. Requires a very mature, well-established system.

Diet & Feeding

Believed to feed on microorganisms, detritus, and possibly sponges on live rock. Exact dietary requirements in captivity are not well established; supplement with meaty foods and liquid invertebrate foods.

Cautions

Very difficult to keep long-term. Most specimens gradually waste away within months in captivity without appropriate nutrition. Best left for experienced keepers with established, mature reef systems.