Description
Tiled Starfish – Fromia monilis
Fromia monilis, commonly known as the Tiled Starfish, is a visually striking reef invertebrate admired for its vibrant coloration and intricate surface patterning. This species features a bright orange to red body overlaid with a distinctive tiled or mosaic-like texture, often accented by darker arm tips that enhance its contrast and symmetry. Slow-moving and graceful, the Tiled Starfish adds a refined, decorative presence to mature reef aquariums, where it spends its time exploring rockwork and hard surfaces.
Origin: Maldives (Indian Ocean)
Depth: 5–30 m (15–100 ft)
Lighting: Moderate; not light-sensitive and comfortable under standard reef lighting
Flow: Low to moderate; prefers gentle, consistent water movement
Tank Placement: Rockwork and hard surfaces; rarely found on open sand
Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG (highly sensitive to fluctuations)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Diet: Specialized feeder – consumes biofilms, microbial films, and encrusting organisms; does not accept prepared foods and requires a mature, well-established aquarium
Temperament: Peaceful
Size: Up to 12 cm (5 inches)
Care Level: Advanced – delicate species with strict acclimation and stability requirements
Compatibility: Reef-safe; safe with corals and most invertebrates; should not be housed with aggressive fish, large wrasses, or predatory crabs
