Sand Sifting Starfish – Archaster typicus

Common name: Sand Sifting Starfish

Scientific name: Archaster typicus

Origin: Indo-Pacific

Adult size: 12–15 cm

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Detritivore / Microfauna feeder

Minimum tank size: 200 L+ (mature system)

Reef safe: Yes

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Overview

Archaster typicus is a popular sand-sifting starfish valued for its ability to keep the substrate clean and aerated. It continuously moves through the sand bed, consuming detritus, organic matter and microfauna.

Best suited for mature reef aquariums with established sand beds.

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Sand Bed Requirements

This species requires:

• Deep, mature sand bed

• Large surface area for foraging

• Stable reef water parameters

In smaller or newly established systems, it may exhaust available food sources and slowly starve.

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Feeding

Primarily consumes:

• Detritus

• Organic debris

• Microfauna within the sand

Supplemental feeding is difficult, as this species feeds within the substrate. For long-term success, a naturally rich sand bed is essential.

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Care Notes

• Sensitive to sudden salinity changes

• Does not tolerate copper-based medications

• Avoid sudden parameter swings

• Best kept singly unless the system is very large

A useful sand-maintenance species for large, mature reef aquariums with sufficient natural food availability.