Sand Sifting Starfish

Astropecten polyacanthus


(6 Reviews)

When it comes to cleaning the sand bed, the Sand Sifting Starfish, Astropecten polyacanthus, is unparalleled in its effectiveness. Also known as the Comb Starfish, White Starfish, and Sand Starfish, this species works wonders in home aquariums for its sifting and cleaning of the sand. However, the Sand Sifting Starfish is delicate and must be kept in a tank with plenty of sand, constant salinity, and not housed with puffers. 
Their beige/brown bodies blend in with the sand so they can sometimes disappear while buried in the sand. They are incredibly reef safe and only provide a benefit to your tank 
Like other Starfish, the Sand Sifter should never be exposed to open air while handling. 
Sand Sifting Starfish

Sand Sifting Starfish

Astropecten polyacanthus


(6 Reviews)

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Care Facts

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons
Max Size: 6 inches
When it comes to cleaning the sand bed, the Sand Sifting Starfish, Astropecten polyacanthus, is unparalleled in its effectiveness. Also known as the Comb Starfish, White Starfish, and Sand Starfish, this species works wonders in home aquariums for its sifting and cleaning of the sand. However, the Sand Sifting Starfish is delicate and must be kept in a tank with plenty of sand, constant salinity, and not housed with puffers. 
Their beige/brown bodies blend in with the sand so they can sometimes disappear while buried in the sand. They are incredibly reef safe and only provide a benefit to your tank 
Like other Starfish, the Sand Sifter should never be exposed to open air while handling. 

The starfish is constantly buried in the sand. I have yet to see it surface on its own. I'm hoping that its cleaning the sand while buried. It is cool to watch how fast he buries himself in the sand when I manage to locate him to pull him out of the sand.


Reviewed by: Esther Murphy on May 16, 2018

Arrived in good health after acclimation instantly disappeared into sand bed


Reviewed by: Lenny on Dec. 4, 2016

This star had done lots of cleaning over night...I can see the star shape all over the sand, busy guy!


Reviewed by: Rosemarie Santos on April 9, 2016

Sand Sifting Starfish are a great way to help manage the algae and substrate in your tank. While they spend much of the time hidden under the sand, this is okay since they are helping to keep it clean. They do come out during the daytime from time to time, and can often be seen once the lights go out, including on the glass.


Reviewed by: Phillip A Thrasher Jr on April 26, 2015


Reviewed by: Lisa Waldron on Oct. 1, 2014

What a surprise, nice big starfish! great price very healthy


Reviewed by: Rob on July 6, 2014

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