Description
Bubble Tip Anemone – Entacmaea quadricolor
Entacmaea quadricolor, known as the Bubble Tip Anemone, is one of the most iconic and dynamic species in the reef aquarium hobby. Famous for its vibrant coloration and unique bulbous tentacle tips, this anemone offers both beauty and behavior—often forming a natural symbiotic relationship with clownfish species such as Amphiprion ocellaris and A. percula. Its coloration can vary from green and rose to ultra-grade rainbow morphs, with fluorescent tentacles that pulse gently in the current, creating constant movement and life within the reef display.
Lighting: Moderate to high (150–250 PAR); vivid fluorescence and bubble formation develop best under blue-dominant or hybrid LED lighting
Flow: Moderate; prefers alternating, indirect flow that allows tentacles to move freely without excessive turbulence
Placement: Middle to upper regions of the aquarium on solid rockwork; ensure secure footing as the anemone may move until it finds an ideal location
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Calcium: 400–440 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nutrients: Moderate (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.05–0.10 ppm); balanced nutrients support coloration and tissue strength
Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from weekly feeding with small pieces of shrimp, mysis, or silversides to promote growth and bubble formation
Aggression: Moderate; possesses potent nematocysts—avoid direct contact with other corals or anemones
Growth Rate: Moderate; expands steadily under stable conditions and can reproduce through fission
Care Level: Intermediate – hardy and rewarding under consistent parameters and strong lighting
Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; excellent for clownfish hosting but requires ample space from LPS or SPS corals due to wandering and stinging potential
