Pincushion Star
(Culcita novaeguineae)

Descrição

The Pincushion Star: A Unique Gem for Your Marine Tank

Discover the captivating Cushion Star, a truly unique echinoderm that brings an unusual shape and vibrant colors to advanced reef aquariums.

Overview

The *Culcita novaeguineae*, commonly known as the Cushion Star or Pincushion Starfish, is a fascinating marine invertebrate. Its mature form is distinctively pentagonal to subglobose, with greatly abbreviated arms that give it an inflated, pillow-like appearance. Adults can reach up to 30 cm (12 in) in diameter. Their coloration is highly variable, ranging from mottled shades of fawn, brown, orange, yellow, and green. Juveniles have a more typical star shape that develops into the characteristic cushion form as they mature.

Care Level

An intermediate care level is recommended for the Cushion Star. While peaceful, they can pose a risk to corals and sessile invertebrates if not adequately fed. Their sensitivity to changes in water parameters requires a stable and mature aquarium environment.

Tank Essentials

A minimum aquarium size of 378 litres (100 gallons) is advised, with a preference for larger systems of 1000L or more for optimal health. Maintain stable water parameters with a pH range of 8.0-8.4, specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and a temperature between 22-29°C (72-83°F). They prefer a sandy or coral rubble substrate with live rock containing algae films.

Diet

The Cushion Star is an omnivore, feeding on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. In a reef aquarium, it may consume coral polyps, making it unsuitable for coral-heavy tanks. Supplement its diet with algae pellets, dried seaweed, or small pieces of fish and mussel flesh.

Why Buy From Us

We provide healthy, quarantined marine life, carefully selected for quality. Our expert team ensures ethical sourcing and provides detailed care information to support your success. Fast, secure shipping guarantees your new invertebrate arrives safely.

• Scientific Name: *Culcita novaeguineae*
• Common Name / Variant: Cushion Star / Pincushion Starfish
• Maximum Size: 30 cm (12 in)
• Origin: Indo-West Pacific Ocean
• pH Range: 8.0–8.4
• Temperature: 22–29°C (72–83°F)
• Lifespan: Up to 35 years
• Swimming Zone: bottom

Bring home a Cushion Star for a unique and captivating marine display!