Common name: Giant Tube Anemone

General information

The Giant Tube Anemone, Pachycerianthus fimbriatus, is a striking marine invertebrate known for its long, tube-like structure and beautiful, feathery tentacles. Unlike true anemones, it belongs to the order Ceriantharia and constructs a parchment-like tube in the substrate, where it can retreat if threatened. This species is not a reef dweller but is found in sandy or muddy bottoms where it can anchor its tube.

Care

Caring for a Giant Tube Anemone in captivity requires a deep sand bed or a soft substrate for it to create its tube. The aquarium should have moderate to low water flow and good water quality. They are carnivorous and feed on small fish, zooplankton, and other meaty foods. It's important to feed them regularly with appropriate-sized food items.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Pachycerianthus fimbriatus is not well documented in home aquariums. In the wild, they can reproduce both sexually, by releasing gametes into the water column, and asexually, through budding or fragmentation.

Symbiosis

While not known for symbiotic relationships like clownfish and anemones, tube anemones can provide a hiding place for certain small fish and invertebrates seeking refuge among their tentacles.

Habitat

Giant Tube Anemones are typically found in temperate to tropical waters, often in areas with soft substrates where they can bury their tubes. They are not associated with coral reefs but are instead found in environments ranging from shallow waters to depths of several hundred meters.