Is it illegal to own a starfish?

Question

I want one really bad, but isn't it illegal or something?

Answer 1

If you arte planning to take one from the ocean, check your state's (or province or whatever) fish and game laws. They are usually on the web and will almost always cover what is and is not legal to collect.

Answer 2

You should check your local regulations. In many areas, it is illegal to take starfish from the ocean. But, if you can buy them from a store, then it's legal. Make sure the store owners didn't just take the starfish from the oceans themselves though. Hope that helps.

Answer 3

You can get starfish from petshop, I think it's legal if you get it from there

Answer 4

It is not illegal to own a starfish.

Answer 5

no

Answer 6

Generally no, but check on local laws. There are marine reserves and parks where it would be illegal to collect any animal from. But generally startfish are not a protected animal.

But  - they are a marine creature, and will need a full marine tank setup. (Expensive for tropical marine)

It is also possible to keep a coldwater marine tank with local rockpool critters. It has it's own problems, usually to do with keeping the water cool enough, but it can be done. Rockpool creatures are are normally pretty hardy and can handle normal temperature and small salinity changes. I have kept cushion stars and small startfish in a coldwater marine tank before, they did fine.

Ian

Answer 7

you can get one from the petshop, yes.

but some could be endangered or even dangerous

so id suggest looking it up.