Red Linkia Star

The Red Linckia Starfish (Linckia sp., often sold as Linckia multifora or “mottled red linckia”) is a striking, reef-safe echinoderm prized for its vivid red to rust coloration and elegant, tapered arms. Best kept in a mature, established reef (75+ gallons) with abundant live rock, this species grazes on natural biofilm, microalgae, and sponges rather than typical meaty foods.

Success hinges on ultra-stable water parameters: SG 1.025–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temp 75–80°F, very low nitrate, zero ammonia/nitrite, and strong oxygenation. Avoid copper medications and rough handling; never expose to air during transfers. 

Peaceful and reef safe with corals and fish, Red Linckia can be threatened by harlequin shrimp and aggressive hermits. Provide shaded crevices, gentle-to-moderate flow, and pristine water to prevent arm necrosis and bacterial infections. While they primarily self-feed from rock surfaces, occasional target feeding with finely minced clam, mysis, or reef roe can help in sparse systems.