Anthelia

Adding a graceful motion to the home aquarium, Anthelia, Anthelia sp. , is a great addition that is durable and grows easily once established. Also known as Encrusting Anthelia or Waving Hands Polyp, Anthelia will grow in most lighting conditions, placement levels, and water flow levels. This coral has a medium aggression level as its encrusting growth method covers both rock and glass surfaces. By placing “starts” at several locations that are making contact with the back glass of the aquarium, Anthelia can make a dramatic aquarium background over time. Each stalk of the pink/brown Anthelia is a work of art in itself. Each stalk contains one “hand”. Each hand consists of eight “fingers.” Each finger has 24 tiny tentacles that run along each side of the finger. That makes 48 tentacles per finger and 384 tentacles per hand! Anthelia It will definitely benefit from occasional target feedings of plankton or brine shrimp, as well as foods designed for filter feeders such as Marine Snow or Phyto-Plex. Calcium and strontium will help ensure its continued health.

Anthelia secretes a mucus coating when threatened. This coating is slimy and quite pungent. The mucus must be rinsed off in saltwater prior to introduction into the home aquarium to prevent the coral from perishing. During shipment, this coating may become quite thick, potentially causing suffocation if not properly removed.

Ships as a cluster of Anthelia growing from a piece of Live Rock. Approximate Arrival Size for Anthelia: Small - 1" to 2.5", Medium - 3.0" to 4.5", Large - 5" to 7"