Sand Star Sex or Violence
Well, I can assure you it is not violence! I have a 300 gallon reef. I also had one stand star, and then added a second. For the first month, they ignored each other. Then it started, 5 minutes or so each time, off and on, maybe a week at a time.
Now, for the past month, it is non-stop. I have to wonder how they get enough time to eat! AND, it IS consensual. The other night, each one was motivating along the sand in opposite directions. Their arm tips touched, and wham! They both moved towards the other one and one hopped on! Usually the same one is on top, but not always.
And I did take photos! These were tonight, and while they are rarely on the glass, they were tonight and the sex continued! Must be love!
http://www.socalspeedskating.org/images/temp/SandStarSex.jpg
http://www.socalspeedskating.org/images/temp/SandStarSex1.jpg
Jerry