Tube Purple Anemone

The Purple Tube Anemone (Cerianthus sp.) is a mesmerizing and unique invertebrate that adds dramatic movement and vibrant color to any reef aquarium. With its long, flowing purple tentacles that extend from a protective tube buried in the substrate, this anemone creates a stunning focal point.

Care Level & Requirements

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (stinging tentacles)
Minimum Tank Size: 30+ gallons
Diet: Carnivore - filter feeder and active hunter
Reef Safe: With caution - has potent sting
What to Expect

The Purple Tube Anemone is a fascinating creature that constructs a protective tube in the sand or substrate, from which it extends its beautiful purple tentacles to capture food. Unlike true anemones, tube anemones are actually cerianthids and have two distinct sets of tentacles - shorter oral tentacles around the mouth and longer marginal tentacles that can extend several inches.

Behavior & Compatibility

Important: Tube anemones possess a powerful sting and should be placed away from corals and other sessile invertebrates. They are not clownfish hosts and will sting fish that come into contact with their tentacles. Best kept in species-specific setups or with careful placement in mixed reefs.

Placement & Substrate Requirements

Tube anemones require a deep sand bed (4-6 inches minimum) or fine substrate where they can burrow and construct their protective tube. Once established, they should not be moved, as relocating can damage their delicate tube and stress the animal. Provide moderate water flow to deliver food particles while allowing tentacles to extend fully.

Feeding

Feed 2-3 times per week with meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, or specialized anemone foods. Target feed by placing food directly onto the tentacles or near the oral disc. They are active feeders and will capture food with their tentacles and bring it to their mouth.

Lighting Requirements

Tube anemones do not contain zooxanthellae and do not require intense lighting. Moderate to low lighting is preferred, making them ideal for lower-light reef systems or areas with subdued illumination.

Tank Considerations

Maintain stable water parameters with good water quality. Keep away from powerhead intakes and overflow areas where tentacles could be damaged. Provide adequate space (6-8 inches) from corals and other stinging invertebrates. They are sensitive to copper-based medications.

Acclimation

Use a slow drip acclimation method over 60-90 minutes. Handle with extreme care and never expose to air. Place gently on the substrate and allow the anemone to burrow naturally - this process may take several hours to complete.

Our Live Arrival Guarantee

Every Purple Tube Anemone ships with our live arrival guarantee, carefully packed to ensure it arrives healthy and ready to establish itself in your reef system.