Green Long Tentacle Anemone

The Long Tentacle Anemone, scientifically known as Macrodactyla doreensis, is a captivating marine creature that is admired for its stunning tentacles and vibrant colors. With its elongated, flowing appendages and unique patterns, this anemone adds a touch of beauty and intrigue to saltwater aquariums.
One of the most striking features of the Long Tentacle Anemone is its long, slender tentacles that can reach lengths of up to 10 inches or more. These tentacles are usually translucent or semi-transparent, with a delicate appearance that gives them an ethereal quality. The tentacles can come in a variety of colors, including shades of green, brown, pink, and purple, often with contrasting tips or bands of color.
The base, or foot, of the Long Tentacle Anemone is typically a light green or brown color and serves as its anchoring point. From this base, the anemone can extend its graceful tentacles into the water column, creating a mesmerizing display as they sway and move with the currents.
In addition to their beauty, the tentacles of the Long Tentacle Anemone are armed with specialized stinging cells called nematocysts. These cells allow the anemone to capture and immobilize its prey, which primarily consists of small fish, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates. While it primarily relies on capturing food through its tentacles, it also forms a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae, which provide it with additional nutrients through photosynthesis.
The Long Tentacle Anemone is generally an easy-to-care-for species, making it a popular choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. It prefers moderate to high lighting levels in the aquarium and should be placed in a tank with stable water parameters. Regular feeding with small meaty foods, such as shrimp or fish, is necessary to ensure its nutritional needs are met.
When selecting tankmates, it is important to consider the Long Tentacle Anemone's aggressive nature towards other sessile invertebrates or corals. It is best to keep it in a species-only tank or with compatible, non-aggressive fish that will not disturb or damage its delicate tentacles. With its captivating tentacles and vibrant colors, the Long Tentacle Anemone is a true showstopper in any saltwater aquarium. Its ability to gracefully move and extend its tentacles creates a mesmerizing and dynamic display. However, it is crucial to handle and house this anemone with care, respecting its stinging cells and providing it with a suitable environment to thrive and flourish.