All You Need to Know About the Chocolate Chip Starfish
Have you ever wondered if the chocolate chip starfish is real? Yes, it truly exists, and it’s as charming as it sounds! This starfish is a living marvel that looks like a delightful combination of cookie dough and chocolate chips.
A Starfish Like No Other
Imagine a beige starfish adorned with dark brown spots, resembling chocolate chips sprinkled on cookie dough. But don’t be fooled by its sweet appearance; those dark brown spots are actually tubercles, or tiny horns, which serve to scare away potential predators by creating an intimidating look.
Quick Chocolate Chip Starfish Facts
- Appearance and Size: The chocolate chip starfish is renowned for its striking appearance. It features a beige body with brown tubercles, giving it a cookie-like look. Adults can grow up to 15 inches, making them a prominent feature in any aquarium.
- Habitat and Care: These starfish are popular choices for aquariums because of their exotic appearance. However, they require specific conditions to thrive. They need a spacious tank and a sand bed that’s several inches deep. These creatures are best suited for fish-only tanks with living rock additions and get along well with mild-mannered fish.
- Behavior: Known for their slow movements, they can be outpaced by faster fish. It’s essential to ensure they get enough to eat, so monitor their feeding closely to avoid competition from other tank inhabitants.
What Do Chocolate Chip Starfish Eat?
Chocolate chip starfish have a preference for meaty foods. While they can eat packaged fish food, they thrive on a diet of chopped squid, shrimp, and mussels. Scatter the food around the tank and watch as your starfish moves over to it. If the other fish are quick to snatch up the food, gently place the starfish over the food to ensure it gets a meal.
Feeding can be easier when the starfish floats to the surface. At this time, you can let some food drift towards it and observe as it uses its legs to guide the food to its mouth.
Why You Should Consider a Chocolate Chip Starfish
Beyond their adorable appearance, this starfish is a fascinating creature. Their slow movements and unique look make them a captivating addition to any aquarium. According to National Geographic, they are related to some truly extraordinary sea life, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their presence.
If you’re considering adding one to your tank, make sure to buy from a reputable source to ensure you get a healthy specimen. These creatures are affordable and accessible from many tank stockers, but a little research goes a long way in maintaining a healthy aquarium.
Ideal Tank Mates and Additional Tips
- Good Tank Mates: Mild-tempered fish and shrimp species are excellent companions for the chocolate chip starfish. Their slow pace means they won’t compete with more aggressive fish.
- Tank Mates to Avoid: Predatory fish, like puffers and triggerfish, are unsuitable due to their aggressive nature. Large hermit crabs can also pose a problem. Additionally, avoid keeping the starfish in coral reefs, as they feed on corals and other small invertebrates.
- Health Considerations: Be cautious with copper-based medications, as these can negatively impact your starfish. Reproduction of this starfish in a home aquarium is unlikely, even if you have both males and females.
Are Chocolate Chip Starfish Poisonous?
Rest assured, this starfish is non-poisonous, making it a safe addition to your tank.
Conclusion
Seriously considering adding a chocolate chip starfish to your aquarium soon. They’re unique, majestic, and will definitely stand out in my tank. If you’re tempted by their charm, don’t hesitate, you’ll enjoy this beautiful creature.