Flat Anemone

Flat Anemone, Heteractis aurora, is considered to be exceptionally hardy for an anemone, requiring decent water flow, a deep substrate bed, and good lighting. Also know as the Beaded Anemone because of the “string of pearls” look of its tentacles, it is a common host for many species of juvenile Clownfish. Presumably because it does not reach as large a size as many other anemones, juvenile Clowns that take residence in the wild often move to larger anemones as the fish grows. The Flat Anemone occurs naturally in sandy-bottomed or muddy-bottomed areas where it can absorb a good amount of light for its photosynthetic processes, yet gather a decent amount of meaty foods. Though not likely, meaty foods could include extremely small fishes in the home aquarium. Occasionally, specimens may choose to roam and may cause damage, but it is not known to roam once a comfortable location has been established. While initially finding its home, it might be helpful to reduce overall aquarium water flow as the Flat Anemone can easily be damaged by pump intakes or pulled into overflow drains. Target feedings of fish, krill, or mussels are readily accepted. The addition of Iodine is a necessity for continued health.

Flat Anemone is a common host for the following Clownfish species: Clarkii.

Approximate Arrival Size for Flat Anemone: Small - 1" to 2.5", Medium – 2.5" to 3.5", Large – 3.5" to 5"