Purple Linckia Sea Star

The Invertebrate Purple Linckia Sea Star (Leiaster teres) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its vibrant purple coloration, smooth star-shaped body, graceful movement, and unique role as a natural algae and detritus grazer.

Males typically resemble females in size and appearance, with no significant external differences, while females/juveniles may appear slightly smaller and paler until maturity.

They reach about 10–12 inches in diameter and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons. Provide ample live rock with mature biofilm, stable sandbed for grazing, and plenty of hiding crevices, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79 °F, pH ~8.1–8.4).

Diet should consist of natural biofilm, algae, detritus, and occasional supplemental feedings of finely chopped meaty foods such as mysis or brine shrimp. With proper care, this sea star makes a standout addition to a mature reef aquarium, both as a functional cleaner and a striking ornamental invertebrate.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.