Tube Anemone - Common

The elegant Tube anemone has extremely long and thin tentacles, and may grow up to 8 inches. Common specimens are typically earthy shades. Unlike most other anemones, the Tube anemone is non-photosynthetic. Feeding should be at least every other day and consist of small meaty items such as Mysis shrimp and other fish foods. It prefers to hide its foot in the sand or stuck to rocks near the bottom. It encases its column with a protective sleeve of mucus, special threads and debris such as sand. During transport it may lose its tube but can create another one once it enters the aquarium. Numerous Tube anemones may be housed together creating a colorful display.

Anemones have a central mouth surrounded by stinging tentacles which can capture small creatures and deliver them to the mouth. The sting is often quite strong and capable of damaging corals and injuring fish. Small fish such as firefish and dragonets may accidently swim directly into the anemone and be killed. The addition of a night light greatly aids fish in avoiding the anemones. The tentacles are often very sticky and can cause painful sores. Some animals are specially adapted to live within anemones, such as Periclimenes shrimp and Porcelain crabs.

Although only distantly related to other anemones, the Tube anemone can still move about the aquarium. They can also float in the water to move quickly. Newly introduced specimens often wander before settling down. At any time it may relocate, and is prone to being sucked into powerheads; all pumps should be screened for safety. Its foot is delicate and should never be damaged. Protein skimming is recommended to oxygenate the water sufficiently. Stable water conditions are important, and anemones are only recommended for mature aquariums.