Colored Phataria Sea Star
(Phataria unifascialis)
Phataria Sea Stars are generally found in warm, tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. They inhabit shallow coastal waters, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy substrates. They are detritivores, meaning it primarily feeds on detritus, small organic particles, and decomposing matter found on the seabed. They use their tube feet to sift through the substrate, capturing and ingesting food particles. It's essential to avoid using copper-based treatments in a tank with invertebrates, as it can harm them. Always follow the recommended guidelines for medication use in marine aquariums.
Phataria unifascialis Sea Stars are also sometimes known as Colored Sea Stars or Pacific Sea Stars. They are typically not seen in the aquarium trade. Phataria unifascialis Sea Stars range in color from beige, brown, green, or reddish-brown. The upper surface may have mottled or contrasting patterns, while the underside is often lighter in color. They can grow up to 12".
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Easy
- Behavior: Social
- Diet: Frozen Food Live Food
- Habitat: Reef
- Light: