Please note: We guarantee that ALL aquaria species we offer will arrive alive and in good health. However, because of the increased level of care required for this particular species, it has been designated as "Expert Only," and it is not covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

The Stichodactyla gigantea or Carpet Anemone as they are commonly called, are quite large and are native to the Indo Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. It serves as a "host" for many types of Clownfish including Amphiprion ocellaris, A. percula, or Dascyllus trimaculatus. All species will thrive on a diet of fish or large meaty foods like shrimp and should be given whole foods, including the skeleton and guts. In the wild and in captivity, the Clown Fish that a Carpet Anemone hosts will generally contribute to its feeding. This is because the Clown Fish often drops some its food. Because it may damage other anemones or corals, These are large animals, often their living mass will exceed most of the other animals in a reef aquarium combined. While they have a relatively low metabolic rate, they still need a lot food, and as a byproduct of this they produce a lot of ammonium ion as waste. The take home message is that these are animals that need a tank that is well equipped to handle excessive amounts of nitrogenous waste.

Carpet Anemone's require a tank with strong lighting and good water movement. The aquarium should provide a variety of sandy and rocky locations and may prefer one more than the other. Anemone's tend to move about the tank until they find the location of their liking. It has a potent sting and may harm corals and other anemones as it moves about the aquarium. It is not compatible with other Anemones within a 12" diameter, so monitor it when it is first introduced into the tank. The addition of a clownfish to the aquarium will immediately help with acclimation. When healthy, it will be very sticky. If it is able to grasp something (or someone), it is very difficult to convince it to let go without damaging it. It is also one of the few anemones that can cause a severe reaction in humans, so keeping one requires care in handling. Once acclimated, it should be fed a diet of fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods. ___________________________________________________________________________________