The Purple Carpet Anemone (Stichodactyla spp.) is a captivating and vibrant addition to mature marine aquariums. Known for its rich purple colouring and expansive oral disc, this anemone can provide both aesthetic appeal and a natural habitat for certain symbiotic species.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. This species requires stable water parameters and attentive husbandry.
Feeding: While capable of deriving nutrition from photosynthetic symbionts (zooxanthellae), regular supplemental feeding is recommended. Offer meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, or specialised anemone pellets 1–2 times per week to maintain health and vibrancy.
Compatibility and Reef Safety: Reef safe with caution. The Purple Carpet Anemone can sting nearby corals and invertebrates, so adequate spacing is essential. It may host anemonefish and certain commensal species, but care should be taken with other tank inhabitants to avoid aggression or injury.
Lighting and Water Flow: Moderate lighting is preferred to support its symbiotic algae without causing stress. Water flow should be gentle to moderate, mimicking natural reef conditions and preventing detritus accumulation beneath the anemone.
Placement: Provide a stable, sandy or rubble substrate area with enough space for expansion. Avoid placing near delicate corals or aggressive tank mates.
Tank Size: A minimum of 120 litres (approximately 30 gallons) is recommended to accommodate its growth and ensure stable water quality.
Origin and Size: Origin and maximum size vary within the genus; typically, medium specimens have an oral disc diameter of 15–25 cm.
With proper care, the Purple Carpet Anemone can be a spectacular and rewarding invertebrate for experienced marine aquarium enthusiasts.
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