Introduction
Species: Green Bubble Tip Anemone
Common Names: Bubble Tip Anemone, Green Bubble Anemone
Natural Habitat: Found in warm Indo-Pacific waters, especially in coral reefs and shallow lagoons.
Physical Characteristics
- Appearance: Bulbous, inflated with elongated tentacles, predominantly green with bubble-like tips.
- Size: Can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter when fully expanded.
- Lifespan: Typically lives 5-10 years in captivity with proper care.
Habitat Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons recommended.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- pH: 7.8 to 8.4
- Aquascaping: Provide stable live rock or sandy substrates for attachment and hiding spots.
Diet
- Primary Diet: Carnivorous; consumes small fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods in the wild.
- Supplemental Feeding: Offer shrimp, fish fillets, or specialized anemone pellets.
- Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times per week, adjusting portions as needed.
Compatibility
- Temperament: Peaceful but may become aggressive toward smaller tankmates or other anemones.
- Suitable Tank Mates: Clownfish and other compatible larger fish.
- Incompatibilities: Avoid small fish and aggressive species that could harm the anemone.
Care Level
- Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water conditions and a balanced diet.
- Health Monitoring: Watch for stress signs like discoloration or retracted tentacles.
Breeding
- In Captivity: Rare, but can reproduce asexually through division (cloning).
- Spawning: Under favorable conditions, releases eggs and sperm into the water.
Economic Considerations
- Market Demand: Popular in marine aquariums for vibrant colors and ease of care.
- Pricing: Wholesale prices vary by size and color; retail prices are generally higher due to popularity.
Sustainability and Conservation
- Wild Population: Stable but threatened by habitat destruction.
- Aquaculture Efforts: Many are bred in captivity to reduce wild collection pressure.
- Regulations: Adhere to local laws regarding marine species collection and trade.
Conclusion
The Green Bubble Tip Anemone is a visually stunning and compatible addition to marine aquariums. With proper care, it thrives, enhancing the tank's vibrancy and fostering symbiotic relationships with certain fish species.