Tile Starfish

Tile Star (Fromia monilis)

The Tile Star (Fromia monilis), also known as the Necklace Starfish, is a peaceful and reef-safe species prized for its vivid coloration and distinct pattern. Its body features reddish-orange plates outlined by lighter borders, giving it a tiled or beaded appearance that adds natural beauty and contrast to any reef display.

Behavior and Role in the Aquarium

This slow-moving scavenger spends its time gliding across rockwork and substrate in search of algae film, detritus, and leftover food. The Tile Star is gentle and non-aggressive, making it a perfect addition to peaceful reef aquariums. It contributes to the overall health of the system by keeping surfaces clean and consuming organic matter that might otherwise accumulate.

Feeding

While Fromia monilis grazes naturally on biofilm and microalgae, it may also accept small bits of meaty foods like mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood once established. In newer or ultra-clean systems, supplemental feeding is recommended to ensure proper nutrition. Stable, mature aquariums with ample live rock tend to support this species best.

Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Not light-dependent

• Water Flow: Moderate

• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef-safe

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive

Quick Care Tips

• Introduce only into mature, stable systems with abundant live rock.

• Avoid sudden changes in salinity or temperature.

• Do not expose to air during acclimation or transfer.

• Maintain high water quality to prevent stress or tissue damage.

  Tile Star (Fromia monilis)

  The Tile Star (Fromia monilis), also known as the Necklace Starfish, is a peaceful and reef-safe species prized for its vivid coloration and distinct pattern. Its body features reddish-orange plates outlined by lighter borders, giving it a tiled or beaded appearance that adds natural beauty and contrast to any reef display.

  Behavior and Role in the Aquarium

  This slow-moving scavenger spends its time gliding across rockwork and substrate in search of algae film, detritus, and leftover food. The Tile Star is gentle and non-aggressive, making it a perfect addition to peaceful reef aquariums. It contributes to the overall health of the system by keeping surfaces clean and consuming organic matter that might otherwise accumulate.

  Feeding

  While Fromia monilis grazes naturally on biofilm and microalgae, it may also accept small bits of meaty foods like mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood once established. In newer or ultra-clean systems, supplemental feeding is recommended to ensure proper nutrition. Stable, mature aquariums with ample live rock tend to support this species best.

  Tank Requirements

  • Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons

  • Lighting: Not light-dependent

  • Water Flow: Moderate

  • Reef Compatibility: Completely reef-safe

  • Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive

  Quick Care Tips

  • Introduce only into mature, stable systems with abundant live rock.

  • Avoid sudden changes in salinity or temperature.

  • Do not expose to air during acclimation or transfer.

  • Maintain high water quality to prevent stress or tissue damage.