Tube Anemone

Care Summary

Tube Anemones are not true anemones but ceriantharians, and they build a permanent tube in the sand from which they extend long, flowing tentacles that create one of the most elegant visual effects in the invertebrate hobby. They need a deep sand bed of at least four to six inches to anchor their tube, and their sweeping outer tentacles carry a potent sting that will damage any coral or soft invertebrate that drifts within range. Give them plenty of clearance from corals and position them where flow will not carry their tentacles into neighboring animals, as tentacle contact is almost always fatal to the coral on the receiving end. Feed meaty items like silversides, krill, mysis, or chopped clam directly to the tentacles two to three times a week in the evening when they are fully extended.