Can I bring him home?

[gefilte]

We found a small starfish at the beach in Hilton Head today. We have a saltwater reef tank that already has a starfish. Would the beach guy survive in our tank if we brought him home with us? Is there any issue about him bringing anything into the tank (disease-wise) that could harm others?

Thanks!

 

[ogden10]

Most likely would be fine, not sure about the ethical, ecological issues....but should not be a problem if you acclimate him correctly.

 

[cmor1701d]

Unless you can identigy the species, know what it eats and can provide that, I would leave it at the beach. Most likely your tank is too warm for it anyway.

 

[ryshark]

Personally I wouldn't put it in my tank.

 

[newfound77951]

I wouldn't either. There are all sorts of nasties that could be introduced to your tank with the starfish. And the temperature issue is a good one.

 

[melosu58]

The temp is a good point. Most likely it is a cool water species. How big is it and what does it look like?

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

Unless you can identigy the species, know what it eats and can provide that, I would leave it at the beach. Most likely your tank is too warm for it anyway.

Couldn't say it better...

 

[gefilte]

Well, I put him back in the ocean to be with his friends.....