Blue Linkia Starfish

Name: Poseidon's Realm
Price range: $$

Linckia laevigata

The Blue Linkia occurs in more than one colour form. Alongside the familiar bright blue, a purple form is regularly offered — both are the same species (Linckia laevigata), and colour varies between individuals and collection areas rather than marking a separate animal.

Blue Linkia Starfish blue form — Blue form

Blue Linkia Starfish purple form — Purple form

Identification	Brilliant solid blue or lavender coloration with five smooth, cylindrical arms. One of the most striking and recognizable reef starfish.
Maximum Length	Up to 12 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size	75 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Reef safe with corals

Behavior

Active rover that explores open rockwork and sand beds. Requires pristine water quality, a mature tank with abundant live rock, and very slow acclimation. One of the most demanding invertebrates to keep long-term.

Diet & Feeding

Grazes on microscopic organisms, bacteria, and organic matter coating live rock surfaces. Cannot be target-fed easily; relies on a rich, established live rock ecosystem.

Cautions

Extremely sensitive to salinity, pH, and temperature changes — must be drip-acclimated over 1–2 hours minimum. Never expose to air. High mortality rate in immature or unstable systems. Not for beginners.