XXL Aussie Starfish – Nardoa novaecaledoniae

XXL Aussie Starfish (Nardoa novaecaledoniae) Care Guide
The XXL Aussie Starfish, scientifically known as Nardoa novaecaledoniae, is a unique and reef-safe starfish known for its stunning appearance and hardiness. This species is native to Australia and the Indo-Pacific and is a fantastic addition to large, well-established reef aquariums.

Habitat & Behavior
Naturally found in shallow reefs and sandy lagoons.
A slow-moving scavenger, feeding on detritus, biofilm, and algae.
Peaceful and reef-safe, making it suitable for mixed reef setups.
Can grow quite large, requiring a spacious tank.
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons (larger recommended due to size).
Live Rock & Substrate: Prefers mature tanks with ample rockwork and sand for grazing.
Water Flow: Low to moderate (strong currents can stress them).
Lighting: No specific requirements but should match the needs of the overall reef.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 74-80°F
Salinity: 1.024-1.026
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm (very sensitive to poor water quality).
Nitrates: <10 ppm (higher levels can cause stress).
Calcium & Alkalinity: Important for overall health but not as critical as for hard corals.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore and omnivore, primarily feeding on biofilm, detritus, and small invertebrates.
Supplemental feeding: Offer small pieces of shrimp, clam, fish, or sinking marine pellets if natural food sources are insufficient.
Avoid overfeeding, as excess organic waste can harm water quality.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
? Reef-safe, does not harm corals or other invertebrates.
? Compatible with peaceful reef fish, snails, and other starfish.
? Avoid aggressive fish like triggers, puffers, and large wrasses that may nip at starfish.
? Not compatible with predatory crabs or harlequin shrimp, which feed on starfish.

Acclimation Process
Turn off tank lights to reduce stress.
Float the sealed bag for 15-20 minutes to equalize temperature.
Drip acclimate over 1-2 hours to prevent osmotic shock.
Gently place the starfish on the substrate—never expose it to air, as it can damage its delicate vascular system.
Monitor for the first few days to ensure it adjusts and starts grazing.
Special Considerations
? Requires a mature, stable reef aquarium with plenty of live rock.
? Very sensitive to sudden changes in salinity—slow acclimation is crucial.
? Should not be handled frequently, as their delicate skin is prone to damage.
? Can regenerate lost arms, but only if water conditions are ideal.