Green Heteractis Magnifica (Ritteri) Anemone - Several Available
The Green Heteractis Magnifica (Ritteri) Anemone (Heteractis magnifica) is a magnificent marine anemone admired for its impressive tentacle display, brilliant green coloration, and fascinating symbiotic relationship with clownfish.
This beautiful specimen features an abundance of elongated tentacles displaying rich olive-green and brownish-green tones, accented by vibrant fluorescent lime-green tips. The contrast between the darker tentacle bases and luminous green ends creates a striking, multicolored appearance.
The tentacles vary naturally in length and shape, with some appearing long and flowing while others are shorter, gently curved, or slightly swollen toward their tips. Their overlapping arrangement produces a richly textured display with a graceful sense of movement.
Beneath the tentacles, portions of the oral disc reveal subtle lavender, muted purple, and brownish coloration, providing additional contrast against the bright green tentacle tips.
Native to tropical Indo-Pacific waters, Heteractis magnifica inhabits shallow reef environments where it typically attaches securely to exposed rock surfaces. Unlike many sand-dwelling anemones, this species generally favors elevated rocky locations with strong illumination and substantial water movement.
Ritteri Anemones are photosynthetic, maintaining a symbiotic relationship with microscopic dinoflagellates that provide an important source of energy through photosynthesis. They can also supplement their nutrition by capturing small marine prey.
This species is a natural host for several clownfish species, making it particularly interesting to marine aquarists who appreciate the relationship between anemones and their resident fish.
With its flowing olive-green tentacles, brilliant fluorescent green tips, and intricate natural structure, the Green Heteractis Magnifica (Ritteri) Anemone makes an extraordinary centerpiece for a spacious, mature reef aquarium.
Due to its demanding lighting, circulation, and environmental requirements, this species is recommended for experienced marine aquarists.
This WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) specimen has been individually photographed, allowing you to purchase the exact anemone pictured.
Care Guide
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Care Requirement |
Recommendation |
|---|---|
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Scientific Name |
Heteractis magnifica (currently also classified as Radianthus magnifica) |
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Common Name |
Green Heteractis Magnifica (Ritteri) Anemone |
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Also Known As |
Magnificent Sea Anemone, Ritteri Anemone |
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Care Level |
Advanced / Expert |
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Minimum Aquarium Size |
100 gallons or larger recommended, with substantial open space |
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Temperament |
Aggressive; stings neighboring corals |
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Reef Compatibility |
Reef compatible with significant caution |
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Lighting |
High to very high, with careful acclimation |
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Water Flow |
Strong, broad, turbulent, and indirect |
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Temperature |
76–80°F |
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Salinity |
1.025–1.026 specific gravity |
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pH |
8.1–8.4 |
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Alkalinity |
Approximately 7–11 dKH; prioritize stability |
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Diet |
Photosynthetic with supplemental marine meaty foods |
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Maximum Size |
Commonly 12–20 inches across; exceptionally large individuals may approach 3 feet |
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Placement |
Elevated, exposed rockwork with secure attachment surfaces |
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Clownfish Hosting |
Natural host for multiple clownfish species; hosting is not guaranteed |
Additional Care Notes
Aquarium Environment: The Green Heteractis Magnifica (Ritteri) Anemone requires a mature, spacious marine aquarium with excellent water quality and exceptionally stable conditions. This is one of the more demanding clownfish-hosting anemones and is best maintained by experienced aquarists familiar with advanced anemone husbandry.
Placement and Attachment: Heteractis magnifica naturally inhabits exposed rocky reef environments. Unlike sand-dwelling anemones, it generally prefers an elevated position on stable rockwork, where its pedal disc can attach firmly to a hard surface. Provide a broad, secure attachment area with adequate clearance for expansion.
Lighting and Water Flow: This species requires strong reef lighting to support its photosynthetic symbionts. Acclimate gradually to changes in light intensity. Provide substantial, broad, turbulent water movement that promotes water exchange across the expanded oral disc. Avoid concentrated jets that continually distort or damage the tissue.
Feeding and Nutrition: Photosynthesis supplies a significant portion of the anemone's energy requirements. Occasional supplemental feeding with appropriately sized portions of thawed mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine shrimp, or other suitable marine foods may provide additional nutrition. Avoid oversized food items and excessive feeding.
Compatibility: Ritteri Anemones possess stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals and other sessile invertebrates. They can also move when environmental conditions are unsuitable. Provide substantial clearance from corals, other anemones, and unprotected aquarium equipment.
Clownfish Associations: Heteractis magnifica is a natural host for several clownfish species, including Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), Percula Clownfish (Amphiprion percula), Clark's Clownfish (Amphiprion clarkii), and Pink Skunk Clownfish (Amphiprion perideraion). Individual clownfish may or may not establish a hosting relationship.
Handling and Safety: Avoid unnecessary handling and never forcibly detach an attached anemone from its substrate. Damage to the pedal disc can compromise its health. Protect all powerhead and wavemaker intakes, as wandering specimens are particularly vulnerable to equipment injuries.
Long-Term Care: Healthy specimens generally maintain firm attachment, consistent oral disc expansion, and responsive tentacles. This species can be sensitive to transportation and environmental changes. Persistent deflation, prolonged mouth gaping, tissue deterioration, or loss of attachment should be investigated promptly. An unhealthy large anemone can rapidly affect aquarium water quality.