A carpet anemone (genus Stichodactyla) is a vibrant and striking species of sea anemone often found in saltwater aquariums and coral reefs. These anemones are typically characterized by their colorful appearance, which can range from green to red, purple, or even blue, and their wide, thick, fleshy tentacles.
Description:
- Size: Carpet anemones can grow quite large, with some species reaching up to 36 inches (90 cm) in diameter.
- Color: They come in various colors, including green, blue, red, and purple, often with contrasting patterns.
- Tentacles: The tentacles are often broad and covered in sticky cells (nematocysts), which they use to capture prey and defend against threats.
- Symbiosis: Carpet anemones often form a symbiotic relationship with clownfish, which are immune to the anemone's sting and provide the anemone with food in exchange for protection.
Care:
To ensure your carpet anemone thrives, it’s essential to meet its environmental and nutritional needs.
-
Tank Setup:
- Tank Size: Carpet anemones require a large aquarium (at least 75 gallons or 285 liters) to accommodate their size and territorial nature.
- Water Quality: Maintain stable water parameters, including a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C), pH of 8.1-8.4, and salinity of 1.023-1.025 specific gravity.
- Filtration: Good water filtration is crucial to keep the water quality high. Carpet anemones are sensitive to high nitrate and phosphate levels, so regular water changes are necessary.
-
Lighting: Carpet anemones need moderate to strong lighting to thrive. They rely on symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) within their tissues for photosynthesis, so adequate lighting will help them meet their nutritional needs.
-
Placement in the Tank:
- Carpet anemones should be placed on a sturdy rock or substrate where they can anchor their base. Avoid placing them in high-flow areas where they could get disturbed, but they do need some water movement to aid in their feeding.
- They may move around until they find a spot that suits them, so it's important to provide a stable, unobstructed environment.
-
Feeding:
- Carpet anemones are carnivores and feed on a variety of food sources, including fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods.
- They can also capture plankton and small invertebrates in the water column, but feeding them directly (2-3 times a week) with frozen or live food helps them thrive.
- Offer food near their tentacles, which they will use to catch and digest it.
-
Clownfish Symbiosis:
- Carpet anemones often host clownfish, who provide them with food scraps and protection. While clownfish aren't required for anemones, having them in the tank can be beneficial for both the fish and the anemone.
-
Maintenance and Health:
- Water Changes: Regular water changes (10-20% per week) are important for maintaining water quality.
- Monitoring Health: Look out for signs of stress, such as shrinking or detaching from their base, which may indicate poor water quality or inappropriate tank conditions.
-
Compatibility:
- Carpet anemones can be aggressive and may sting other tank mates. Be mindful of placing them with corals or fish that could be harmed by their tentacles. They may also harm or kill other invertebrates if they come into contact with their sting.
Common Species:
- Stichodactyla gigantea: This is one of the most commonly kept species, known for its large size and vibrant colors.
- Stichodactyla mertensii: Another popular species, often referred to as the "Mertens' Carpet Anemone," with a blue to green coloration.
Special Notes:
- Carpet anemones can be difficult to care for, requiring stable conditions and an experienced aquarist. If they are not provided with the proper environment, they may become stressed and potentially deteriorate rapidly.
- Ensure all tankmates are compatible, as their venomous tentacles can pose a risk to fish and invertebrates not accustomed to the anemone.
By maintaining good water quality, providing adequate lighting and feeding, and ensuring a compatible environment, your carpet anemone can become a long-lasting, colorful addition to your aquarium