Carpet Anemone
Stichodactyla gigantea(Forsskål, 1775)Species
A large anemone with short tentacles packed into a carpet. A powerful host for many clownfish, but its potent sting and demanding water requirements make it advanced.
Names & Synonyms
- CommonCarpet Anemone
- Commonハタゴイソギンチャク
Overview
The giant carpet anemone (Stichodactyla gigantea) inhabits shallow reefs and sandy bottoms of the Indo-Pacific and is characterized by short, densely packed tentacles that cover the oral disc like a carpet. Vividly colored in green, blue, purple, or red, it can reach 30-50 cm across. Known as the most powerful clownfish host, it is favored by many clownfish species and sought after by aquarists who want to see clowns enveloped in an anemone. However, it is one of the most difficult anemones to keep in captivity, and success depends heavily on the condition of the imported specimen. It requires strong lighting, strong random flow, and pristine water, and because it anchors its foot in sand, a sand bed is appropriate. Its adhesion and sting are very strong and can severely damage a bare hand, other animals, or corals, so placement and handling demand great care. Feed it minced fish, shrimp, or shellfish several times a week.
Care Points
- Difficulty—Demanding; success hinges on import condition
- Light & flow—Needs strong light, strong flow, and pristine water
- Sting—Very strong adhesion and venom; do not touch
- Clownfish—A powerful host favored by many clownfish
- Notes—Anchors its foot in sand; keep with a sand bed
Regulatory & Conservation
- Notes:
- 刺胞動物・イソギンチャク目(Actiniaria)。イシサンゴ目(Scleractinia)でないためCITES非掲載。特定外来生物にも非該当。刺胞毒が非常に強く取り扱い注意。
Sources
- DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals(Actiniaria 非掲載)(regulatory)
- CITES Appendices(regulatory)
- Wikipedia(detail)
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