Common name: Waratah anemone

General information

The Waratah Anemone, Actinia tenebrosa, is a solitary and hardy sea anemone native to the rocky shores of Australia and New Zealand. It is known for its ability to withstand harsh intertidal conditions, retracting its tentacles and resembling a dark red or brownish 'bead' when out of water, hence the alternative name Beadlet Anemone.

Care

In captivity, Actinia tenebrosa requires a stable environment with strong water movement and good water quality to mimic its natural habitat. It can tolerate a range of temperatures but prefers cooler water, typical of its native regions. This anemone is not demanding when it comes to lighting, but it does need a diet of meaty foods such as chopped fish, shrimp, and other suitable marine fare.

Reproduction

Waratah Anemones reproduce both sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, they release gametes into the water column for external fertilization. Asexually, they can reproduce through pedal laceration, where new anemones form from pieces left behind as the anemone moves.

Symbiosis

While not as famous for hosting clownfish as tropical anemones, Actinia tenebrosa can form symbiotic relationships with certain species of shrimp and crabs that seek refuge among its tentacles. These relationships are less common in the aquarium trade but can be fascinating to observe.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Waratah Anemone includes rocky intertidal zones where it can often be found in rock pools. It is adapted to survive both submerged and exposed to the air during low tides. In the aquarium, they should be provided with plenty of live rock to attach to and hide among.