Bubble tip anemone

Origin

Bubble tip anemones are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often attaching themselves to rocks and crevices.

Appearance

Bubble tip anemones are named for the bulbous tips on their tentacles, although not all individuals display this characteristic. Their colors can range from green and brown to more vibrant hues like red and orange, with the "rainbow" variety being particularly sought after for its mix of colors.

Tank Requirements

    •    Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons.

    •    Lighting: Moderate to high (150-350 PAR). They thrive under intense lighting but can adapt to various conditions.

    •    Water Flow: Low to moderate. Ensure flow is not too strong to prevent tissue damage and avoid the anemone getting sucked into powerheads.

    •    Water Parameters:

    •    Temperature: 72-82°F

    •    Salinity: 1.023-1.025

    •    pH: 8.1-8.4

    •    Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

    •    Nitrate: 5-10 ppm

    •    Phosphate: 0.05-0.1 ppm

Feeding

Bubble tip anemones have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae, which provide nutrients through photosynthesis. However, they also benefit from weekly feedings of meaty foods such as Mysis shrimp or frozen preparations. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues.

Placement and Movement

Bubble tip anemones are not sessile and can move around the tank to find a suitable spot. They prefer areas with moderate to high light and good water flow. Ensure all powerheads and wavemakers are covered to prevent the anemone from getting injured.

Compatibility

These anemones can sting neighboring corals and invertebrates, so provide ample space. They are excellent hosts for various species of clownfish, which can help them thrive.

Propagation

Bubble tip anemones can reproduce by splitting, especially when they are thriving or stressed. This natural process allows them to propagate without manual intervention.

Common Issues

    •    Browning or Bleaching: Often due to inadequate lighting or water quality issues.

    •    Inflating and Deflating: Normal behavior for maintaining shape and expelling waste, but frequent occurrences may indicate stress.

By maintaining stable water conditions and providing appropriate lighting and flow, bubble tip anemones can be a beautiful and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium