Ultra Green Long Tentacle Anemone - Macrodactyla doreensis

Green Long Tentacle Anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis)

The Green Long Tentacle Anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis) is a captivating marine invertebrate known for its long, flowing green tentacles and symbiotic relationship with certain species of clownfish. It is a popular choice for reef aquariums, providing both aesthetic appeal and a natural habitat for clownfish.

Description:

• Common Name: Green Long Tentacle Anemone

• Scientific Name: Macrodactyla doreensis

• Family: Actiniidae

• Size: Can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter

• Color: Typically vibrant green tentacles, with a contrasting base that can range from white to pinkish hues.

Native Region:

The Green Long Tentacle Anemone is found in the Indo-Pacific region, commonly inhabiting shallow, sandy lagoons and seagrass beds. It attaches its base deep into sandy substrates, where it can expand its tentacles to capture food and interact with symbiotic clownfish.

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 50 gallons (190 liters)

• Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity

• Substrate: A deep sand bed of at least 3 inches (8 cm) is crucial for the anemone to bury its foot and feel secure. It prefers a sandy or mixed sand and rock substrate.

• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small fish, plankton, and meaty foods like mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood. Occasional target feeding is recommended to ensure proper nutrition.

Care Level:

• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, as it may sting nearby corals or fish. It is best housed in tanks with plenty of space to avoid conflicts with other invertebrates or corals.

• Lifespan: With proper care, can live for several years in a captive environment.

Symbiotic Relationship:

The Green Long Tentacle Anemone is known for its symbiotic relationship with several species of clownfish, including the popular Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) and Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula). These fish seek shelter among the anemone’s tentacles, gaining protection while helping to keep the anemone clean and fed.

Additional Tips:

• Tank Mates: Ideal for a reef tank with compatible clownfish, but be cautious when placing it near other corals, as its long tentacles can sting and damage nearby inhabitants. Avoid placing it too close to corals or anemones to prevent territorial disputes.

• Behavior: The Green Long Tentacle Anemone will expand and contract throughout the day, adjusting its tentacles based on light and flow. It can move around the tank if it is unhappy with its current location, so providing optimal conditions will help it stay settled.

• Water Quality: This species requires stable, pristine water conditions with high oxygenation and proper filtration. It is sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance and water changes are essential.

Lighting:

Requires moderate to high lighting, as it relies on photosynthesis through the symbiotic zooxanthellae algae living within its tissues. Strong lighting will help maintain the anemone’s health and vibrant green color. Metal halides, LEDs, or T5 lighting systems are ideal.

Flow:

The Green Long Tentacle Anemone prefers moderate water flow to allow its tentacles to sway gently. Strong currents can cause stress, while low flow may not provide enough oxygenation. Adjustable flow from powerheads or wavemakers is recommended to achieve the right balance.