Common name: southern cerianthid

General information

The Atlantic Tube Anemone, Ceriantheopsis americana, is a fascinating marine invertebrate that is not a true anemone but belongs to the order Ceriantharia. Unlike true anemones, tube anemones live inside a secreted tube made of a fibrous material called ptychocysts which they can retract into for protection. They are known for their striking coloration, typically displaying a range of hues from deep purples to vibrant oranges and pinks.

Care

Tube anemones are moderate to care for in the home aquarium. They require a sandy substrate in which they can anchor their tubes. Good water quality is essential, with stable parameters and low nitrate levels. They feed on small fish, zooplankton, and other meaty foods, so regular feeding is necessary for their health. It's important to ensure that their food is delivered close to their tentacles as they are not aggressive feeders.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Ceriantheopsis americana is not well documented in home aquariums. In the wild, they can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, while asexual reproduction can occur through budding or fragmentation of the tube.

Habitat

The Atlantic Tube Anemone is native to the Western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. They are typically found in sandy or muddy substrates, often in reef-associated environments. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with a deep sand bed and low to moderate flow will help them thrive.