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Entacmaea quadricolor
A popular anemone whose tentacle tips swell into rounded bubbles. A classic clownfish host and, among host anemones, relatively easy to keep.
The bubble-tip anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor, BTA) is widely distributed across Indo-Pacific reefs and is named for the rounded, bulbous swellings that form near the tips of its tentacles. It comes in many colors-rose-red, green, brown-with the red rose BTA forms being especially prized. It hosts many clownfish species, including ocellaris, tomato, and clarkii clowns, and watching this symbiosis is a major reason for its popularity among marine aquarists. It is among the hardier, more keepable host anemones, but because the zooxanthellae in its tentacles photosynthesize, it needs moderate-to-strong lighting (around 150+ PAR), moderate random flow, and clean water. Feeding minced fish or shrimp once or twice a week keeps it thriving, and it may split to multiply. It can move and is prone to being drawn into wavemaker intakes, so fit guards. It stings, so position it where it will not contact other corals.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Bubble-Tip Anemone lives Decades with proper care.
The Bubble-Tip Anemone grows to 10-30cm diameter.
The ideal temperature for the Bubble-Tip Anemone is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
Decades with proper care
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Entacmaea quadricolor (Rüppell & Leuckart, 1828)
Authority databases: Wikipedia
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Cnidarian sea anemone (Actiniaria). Not listed by CITES as it is not in the stone coral order (Scleractinia). Not designated as a specified invasive species. Nematocyst toxin present; caution advised when in contact with other corals.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Actiniaria not listed) / CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
10-30cm diameter
Temperature
24〜27℃
Humidity
—
Photosynthesis + feeding (fish, shrimp, prepared food)
Moderate-to-strong light for symbiotic algae (150+ PAR)
It prefers moderate random flow. Because it moves and stings other corals, arrange the tank so it cannot touch them and guard pump intakes.
Keep 24-27°C and clean water. It is relatively hardy among host anemones, and in good conditions it may split and multiply.
Hosts ocellaris/tomato/clarkii etc.; a classic host
Feed minced fish or shrimp 1-2x weekly
Guard pump intakes; needs clean water
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Bubble-Tip Anemone is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Bubble-Tip Anemone is Decades with proper care. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Bubble-Tip Anemone typically reaches 10-30cm diameter as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Bubble-Tip Anemone feeds on: Photosynthesis + feeding (fish, shrimp, prepared food). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Bubble-Tip Anemone varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 26, 2026