Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) Care Guide

The most popular anemone for hosting clownfish in captivity, with distinctive bulb-tipped tentacles. Comes in green, rose, and rainbow varieties. Can split to reproduce.

Overview

Entacmaea quadricolor is a species in the family Actiniidae. The most popular anemone for hosting clownfish in captivity, with distinctive bulb-tipped tentacles. Comes in green, rose, and rainbow varieties. Can split to reproduce. Will wander the tank until it finds a suitable spot, potentially stinging corals along the way.

Taxonomy

Family: Actiniidae
Genus: Entacmaea
Scientific name: Entacmaea quadricolor
Other names: BTA, Rose Bubble Tip
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Entacmaea quadricolor is a sea anemone of Indo-Pacific reefs, often hosting clownfish in a symbiotic partnership. Its tentacles may form characteristic bulbous tips. It relies on symbiotic algae plus captured prey and can move around the tank seeking suitable light and flow.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 10-30 cm
Lifespan: 20-80 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1-2x weekly. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Clownfish, Wrasses, Tangs
Avoid with: Corals, Powerheads, Other Anemones

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe with caution: may disturb other sessile invertebrates, sting neighbouring corals or prey on small ornamental shrimps, so placement and tankmates need consideration.