Tiled Sea Star

Overview

The Tiled Sea Star (Fromia monilis) is a striking echinoderm widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its vibrant coloration and distinct plate-like appearance, this species is frequently encountered by divers in shallow reef environments.

Distribution & habitat

This species inhabits the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific, ranging from the Andaman Islands to Japan and Australia. It is typically found in shallow reef areas, often favoring reef slopes with rocky substrates where it can navigate crevices and hard surfaces.

Appearance

Fromia monilis is characterized by a central disc and five triangular, flattened arms. Its coloration is highly variable but generally features a bright red center and arm tips, contrasted by paler, cream-colored skeletal plates that cover much of its surface. These plates are often arranged in a regular, tiled pattern, particularly along the edges of the arms. While adults typically reach 5 to 10 cm in diameter, some individuals can grow larger. Identification can be challenging due to its resemblance to other species in the Fromia genus, such as Fromia nodosa.

Biology & behavior

This sea star is primarily sedentary, spending its days sheltered in rock crevices and becoming more active as it moves across the substrate. Like other members of the class Asteroidea, it possesses the ability to regenerate lost limbs. It is generally solitary in the wild.

Feeding

As an omnivorous scavenger, the Tiled Sea Star feeds on a variety of organic materials found on the reef. Its natural diet includes encrusting sponges, detritus, small invertebrates, and thin layers of algae growing on rocks.