Ordinary Carpet anemone (Grey Green)

Introduction:

Common Names: Carpet Anemone, Gray-Green Carpet Anemone

Natural Habitat: Found in the shallow lagoons and reef flats of the Indo-Pacific region, typically anchored to sandy or rubble substrates.

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Ordinary Carpet Anemone features a broad, fleshy base with tentacles that are short and densely packed, resembling a carpet. Its coloration ranges from muted gray to green, often with subtle patterns that provide camouflage in its natural habitat.

Size: Can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter, with some individuals reaching larger sizes in optimal conditions.

Lifespan: Known to live for decades in captivity with proper care.

Habitat Requirements:

Tank Size: Requires a minimum of 50 gallons, but larger tanks (100+ gallons) are recommended due to its potential size and space needs.

Water Conditions:

Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)

pH: 8.1-8.4

Specific Gravity: 1.023-1.025

Lighting: High-intensity lighting, such as metal halides or strong LEDs, to support its photosynthetic symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae).

Flow: Moderate water flow to simulate its natural environment, ensuring proper oxygenation without overly disrupting the anemone.

Diet:

Primary Nutrition: Relies on its symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae for a significant portion of its nutritional needs.

Supplemental Feeding: Feed small, meaty items such as mysis shrimp, chopped fish, or krill once or twice a week to ensure optimal health and growth.

Feeding Technique: Gently place food near its oral disc, allowing the anemone to grab and ingest it.

Compatibility:

Clownfish Hosting: Often hosts various species of clownfish, such as Clarkii and Saddleback Clownfish, but compatibility may vary based on the anemone’s size and temperament.

Tank Mates: Compatible with hardy reef-safe fish and invertebrates, though caution is needed with mobile species that may get stung.

Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with small, slow-moving fish or invertebrates that may accidentally venture into its tentacles and get consumed.

Care Level:

Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water conditions, intense lighting, and careful placement in the aquarium.

Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of stress such as deflation, bleaching, or gaping mouths. Maintaining pristine water quality is crucial for its survival.

Breeding:

Reproduction in Captivity: Rarely reproduces in home aquariums, though it can propagate through splitting (asexual reproduction) in optimal conditions.

Spawning: In the wild, Carpet Anemones release eggs and sperm into the water column during spawning events.

Economic Considerations:

Market Demand: Popular among marine aquarists for its clownfish-hosting capabilities and unique appearance.

Pricing: Moderately priced, depending on size and coloration.

Conclusion: The Ordinary Carpet Anemone (Gray-Green) is a captivating addition to a reef aquarium, offering a natural host for clownfish and enhancing the tank's biodiversity. While it requires stable water parameters, strong lighting, and careful care, experienced aquarists will find it a rewarding and visually striking centerpiece.