Rainbow Bubble Tip Anemone

The Rainbow Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is a captivating marine invertebrate, celebrated for its vibrant colors and unique tentacle structure, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.

Essential Information:

Common Names: Rainbow Bubble Tip Anemone, Bubble Tip Anemone, BTA
Scientific Name: Entacmaea quadricolor
Family: Actiniidae
Origin/Habitat: Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Red Sea, typically found in shallow, rocky reef environments.
Maximum Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter.
Lifespan: Generally ranges from 5 to 10 years in captivity with proper care.
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires stable water conditions and adequate lighting.
Reef Safe: Yes; they are considered reef-safe but may sting nearby corals or invertebrates.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

Coloration & Pattern: Exhibit a wide array of colors, including red, orange, green, yellow, and combinations of these, often with an iridescent quality.
Body Shape & Structure: Feature a central oral disc with tentacles that develop bubble-like tips, which can change shape depending on lighting, flow, and feeding conditions.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters) is recommended to provide adequate space.
Water Temperature: Ideal range is between 72–78°F (22–25°C).
pH Level: Maintain a pH between 8.1 and 8.4.
Specific Gravity: Optimal specific gravity ranges from 1.023 to 1.025.
Aquascape: Provide a stable rocky surface where the anemone can securely attach itself.

Diet & Feeding:

Diet Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods: Small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, silversides, krill, and finely chopped seafood.
Feeding Frequency: Feed 2–3 times per week; overfeeding can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior & Compatibility:

Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be semi-aggressive if it comes into contact with other corals or invertebrates.
Social Behavior: Typically solitary; does not require companions but can host certain clownfish species in a symbiotic relationship.
Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing with predatory species that may harm them.
Activity Level: May move around the tank until it finds a suitable location with optimal lighting and flow conditions.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

Ease of Care: Hardy but requires stable water parameters and proper acclimation.
Special Requirements: Ensure stable water conditions and avoid sudden changes in salinity or temperature. Acclimate slowly when introducing to a new tank to prevent shock.
Breeding Info: Reproduction in captivity occurs through both sexual reproduction and asexual cloning (splitting).
Additional Notes: Regular monitoring of water quality is essential. Providing sufficient light and food will support their health and longevity. Be mindful of their movement, as they can sting nearby corals or invertebrates.