Common name: tree anemone

General information

The Hell's Fire Anemone, scientifically known as Actinodendron arboreum, is a striking species of sea anemone that is both admired and feared by aquarists for its potent sting. It belongs to the order Actiniaria and is known for its unique, tree-like appearance with branching tentacles that resemble fern leaves. This anemone is not a common choice for the average reef tank due to its aggressive nature and the potential harm it can cause to other tank inhabitants.

Care

Caring for a Hell's Fire Anemone requires an advanced level of expertise. It is essential to provide a spacious tank with stable water conditions, moderate to strong lighting, and moderate water flow. The substrate should be sandy to allow the anemone to anchor itself. Caution is advised when placing this anemone in a community tank, as it can deliver a painful sting to both humans and tank mates. It is best kept with species that can tolerate its defensive mechanisms or in a species-specific setup.

Reproduction

In the wild, Actinodendron arboreum can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction through pedal laceration is more commonly observed, where new anemones form from pieces of the parent's base. Sexual reproduction in captivity is rare and not well documented.

Habitat

Hell's Fire Anemones are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting sandy bottoms and reef slopes. They often bury their column in the substrate, leaving only their menacing tentacles exposed to capture prey and deter predators.