Mediterranean Red Sea Star
(Echinaster sepositus)

Description

Mediterranean Red Sea Star: A Jewel for Temperate Marine Tanks

Admire the vivid beauty of the Mediterranean Red Sea Star, a captivating echinoderm renowned for its striking scarlet hues and unique texture.

Overview

The Mediterranean Red Sea Star (*Echinaster sepositus*) presents an enchanting spectacle with its five, sometimes six or seven, slender arms radiating from a small central disc. Its surface is a vibrant orange-red to brick-red, often described as having a soapy or slightly rough texture, dotted with small pits from which deep red gills emerge. This species moves gracefully across the substrate using its numerous tube feet, acting as a natural scavenger, diligently foraging for detritus and biofilm across your rockwork and sand bed.

Care Level

This is a moderate to advanced care marine invertebrate, critically important to note it thrives in *temperate* marine environments, not typical tropical reef tanks. It demands highly stable water parameters and is extremely sensitive to sudden fluctuations in pH, salinity, or oxygen levels. Careful, prolonged drip acclimation is essential. While generally peaceful, ensuring ample foraging space is key for its long-term health and preventing stress.

Tank Essentials

A spacious, well-established marine aquarium with a deep, mature sand bed and abundant live rockwork is crucial for the Mediterranean Red Sea Star to forage adequately. Its natural habitat is cooler than most home reef tanks, requiring stable temperatures between 10-22°C. Maintain a pH range of 8.0-8.5 and specific gravity of 1.023-1.025 to replicate its native conditions.

Diet

Primarily a detritivore and scavenger, the Mediterranean Red Sea Star feeds on biofilm, microalgae, small microbes, and organic detritus found on surfaces. Supplement its diet with small pieces of clam meat, shrimp, or dried seaweed placed beneath it, especially in less mature systems.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Mediterranean Red Sea Star online from Corais de Vidro, you receive healthy aquarium fish responsibly sourced and meticulously quarantined. We prioritize ethical practices, ensuring your new companion arrives in prime condition, ready to thrive in your carefully prepared temperate marine setup. Our commitment is to provide robust specimens and expert guidance for your aquatic success.

• Scientific Name: Echinaster sepositus
• Common Name / Variant: Mediterranean Red Sea Star
• Maximum Size: 30 cm
• Origin: Mediterranean Sea, East Atlantic Ocean
• pH Range: 8.0–8.5
• Temperature: 10–22°C
• Lifespan: 5 years
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Add this remarkable temperate sea star to your collection today!