Common name: Saddle anemone

General information

Haddon's Carpet Anemone, Stichodactyla haddoni, is a large and colorful species of sea anemone that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This anemone is known for its striking appearance, with a flat, spread-out oral disc that can exhibit a variety of colors, including shades of green, blue, brown, and purple. The tentacles are typically short and stubby, and the anemone can reach a significant size, making it a centerpiece in many reef tanks.

Care

Caring for Haddon's Carpet Anemone requires a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters. They need a sandy substrate to anchor their foot and ample space to expand without touching other corals or anemones, as they can be aggressive towards neighbors. Strong lighting and moderate to strong water flow mimic their natural reef environment, promoting health and growth. Feeding should consist of meaty foods like fish, shrimp, and other seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Stichodactyla haddoni reproduces both sexually and asexually. In aquariums, they can occasionally reproduce asexually through pedal laceration, where pieces of the foot develop into new individuals. Sexual reproduction is rare in captivity.

Symbiosis

Haddon's Carpet Anemone is well-known for its symbiotic relationship with clownfish, particularly the @species:amphiprion-clarkii and @species:amphiprion-ocellaris, which can live within the anemone's tentacles for protection. The anemone benefits from the clownfish's waste as a nutrient source and the clownfish is protected from predators.

Habitat

Stichodactyla haddoni is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to Fiji, and from Japan to Australia. They typically inhabit shallow waters on sandy bottoms or reef flats where they can receive plenty of sunlight.