Entacmaea quadricolor (Flame tip Bubble Anemone)

The Entacmaea quadricolor Flame Tip is a highly sought-after morph of the Bulbous Anemone, with bulbous tentacles tipped in bright orange on a green or golden-brown body. It is a preferred natural host for the clownfish Amphiprion ocellaris and A. percula . This anemone is the most recommended for reef aquariums—more robust than other species, it adapts well to aquariums provided the water parameters are stable.

Requirements

• Lighting: strong to very strong — 200–350 PAR (Kessil, AI Hydra, Red Sea ReefLED)
• Water flow: moderate to strong, non-directional
• Temperature: 25–27°C stable
• Salinity: 1.025–1.026 stable
• pH: 7.8–8.4 (normal natural day/night fluctuation in a reef tank)
• Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH — Calcium: 400–450 ppm
• Nitrates: <10 ppm — Tank matures for at least 6 months

Behavior

After being introduced, it moves until it finds a well-lit rock crevice. Once attached, it remains stable. The stinging tentacles (nematocysts) can burn nearby corals—provide a clear space. It divides naturally by binary fission under good conditions—an excellent sign of health.

Food

Feed 2–3 times a week with thawed shrimp, mussels, or carnivorous food. The house clownfish often feed the anemone naturally.

Compatibility

Ideal with Amphiprion ocellaris , A. percula , A. bicinctus . Incompatible with butterflyfish.