Green Carpet Anemone

The Green Carpet Anemone, also known as Haddon's Anemone (Stichodactyla sp.), is a captivating addition to saltwater marine aquariums, showcasing the beauty of natural symbiosis. Originating from shallow ocean depths, these anemones form a reef-safe relationship with certain clownfish species, providing them with protection and shelter. With a remarkable size potential of up to 20 inches in diameter and a lifespan of several years, they add long-term allure to marine environments.

To sustain the Green Carpet Anemone in captivity, a balanced diet of photosynthetic nutrition and supplementary meaty feedings is essential. While not currently aquacultured for hobbyists, responsibly sourced specimens from reputable suppliers ensure the health and vitality of these creatures. When selecting tank mates, compatibility and temperament are crucial, with suitable companions including specific clownfish species, royal gramma, firefish goby, and cleaner shrimp. Maintaining optimal tank conditions, including appropriate lighting, water parameters, and aquascaping, ensures the well-being of these fascinating creatures in the aquarium habitat.

Natural Habitat

The Green Carpet Anemone is a living masterpiece, a true testament to the splendor of marine ecosystems. As a reef-safe inhabitant, it shares a symbiotic relationship with certain species of clownfish, offering both protection and a haven.

Size and Lifespan

These magnificent anemones showcase their beauty on a grand scale, often spanning sizes of up to 20 inches in diameter. They can live for many years with proper care, contributing to the long-term allure of your marine environment.

Diet and Aquaculture

The Green Carpet Anemone is a photosynthetic creature, deriving a portion of its nutrition from the photosynthesis of its zooxanthellae. It also benefits from regular feedings of small meaty offerings, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and enriched frozen foods. They are not currently aquacultured for hobbyists. Choose sustainably collected specimens from reputable suppliers.

Compatibility and Temperament

The temperament of the Green Carpet Anemone is fascinating to observe. While they are generally solitary creatures, they can coexist with specific species that share their habitat preferences and behaviors.

Symbiotic Relationships

One of the most captivating aspects of the Green Carpet Anemone is its symbiotic relationship with certain species of clownfish. These clownfish find protection and a secure environment among the anemone's tentacles, while the anemone benefits from the nutrients provided by the clownfish's waste.

Suitable Tank Mates

Selecting compatible tank mates for the Green Carpet Anemone involves choosing species that won't compete for resources or disturb its delicate tentacles. Suitable companions include the Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula), the Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), the Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), the Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica), and the Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis).

Tank Requirements

Creating an environment that mimics the Green Carpet Anemone's natural habitat is critical to its well-being. Provide plenty of rockwork and crevices for them to attach and anchor themselves. The minimum tank size recommended for accommodating this creature is 75 gallons. High-intensity lighting is recommended.

Detailed Water Conditions

Maintaining optimal water conditions is essential for the health of the Green Carpet Anemone. Adhere to the following parameters:

• pH: 8.0 to 8.4
• Salinity: 1.023 to 1.025 specific gravity
• Water Temperature: 76°F to 80°F (24.4°C to 26.7°C)
• Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high lighting, preferably with a spectrum of blue and white wavelengths.
• Water Flow: Low to moderate flow to prevent excessive disturbance of their tentacles.

Other Common Names

The Green Carpet Anemone is also commonly called the Carpet Anemone and Haddon’s Anemone.