Common name: Trumpet anemone

General information

Aiptasia mutabilis, commonly known as the Glass Anemone or Aiptasia, is a species of nuisance anemone often found in saltwater aquariums. They are known for their rapid reproduction and invasive nature, which can overwhelm other sessile invertebrates and corals. Aiptasia can reach up to 5 cm in diameter, with a columnar body and a crown of tentacles. They are usually brown or translucent.

Care

Aiptasia are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, which contributes to their invasive potential. They can be difficult to eradicate once established, as they can regenerate from small pieces left behind. Manual removal, chemical treatments, and biological controls like introducing Aiptasia-eating species such as the Peppermint Shrimp (@species:lysmata-wurdemanni) or Copperband Butterflyfish (@species:chelmon-rostratus) are common methods of control.

Reproduction

Aiptasia mutabilis reproduces both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction is primarily through pedal laceration, where small pieces of the base detach and grow into new anemones. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, leading to the formation of free-swimming larvae that settle and form new anemones.

Symbiosis

While Aiptasia are not sought after for symbiotic relationships in aquariums, they do host a variety of symbiotic algae, known as zooxanthellae, which provide the anemones with nutrients through photosynthesis. However, their aggressive nature and tendency to sting other tank inhabitants make them undesirable in most reef aquariums.

Habitat

Aiptasia mutabilis is found in shallow waters of the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. They often settle on hard substrates, including rocks, pier pilings, and even aquarium glass and equipment.