Lemon-Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone
The Lemon Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone (Stichodactyla tapetum) is a brilliantly colored variety of the popular Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone, prized for its extraordinary patterns, compact growth, and striking fluorescent coloration.
This beautiful specimen displays an intense lemon-yellow and lime-green oral disc accented by intricate radial markings, contrasting reddish-orange spots, and a distinctive pinkish-red mouth. Its densely arranged, short tentacles create a textured, carpet-like appearance, making it a captivating addition to a colorful reef aquarium.
Native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region, Stichodactyla tapetum is a photosynthetic sea anemone that receives much of its nutritional energy from symbiotic dinoflagellates living within its tissues. Occasional supplemental feedings of appropriately sized marine foods can support healthy growth.
Unlike larger carpet anemone species, Maxi Mini Carpet Anemones generally remain relatively compact, making them attractive choices for established reef aquariums with limited space. They typically attach securely to rockwork or crevices, where they spread their colorful oral discs to capture available light and food.
Their exceptional color variations and intricate patterns make individual specimens highly collectible among reef aquarium enthusiasts.
This WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) anemone is individually photographed, so you will receive the exact specimen shown.
Care Guide
|
Care Requirement |
Recommendation |
|---|---|
|
Scientific Name |
Stichodactyla tapetum |
|
Common Name |
Lemon Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone |
|
Care Level |
Moderate |
|
Minimum Aquarium Size |
10 gallons or larger; mature, stable aquarium required |
|
Temperament |
Semi-aggressive; powerful sting to nearby livestock |
|
Reef Compatibility |
Reef compatible with caution |
|
Lighting |
Moderate to high; acclimate gradually |
|
Water Flow |
Low to moderate, indirect |
|
Temperature |
76–80°F |
|
Salinity |
1.025–1.026 specific gravity |
|
pH |
8.1–8.4 |
|
Alkalinity |
8–12 dKH; maintain stability |
|
Diet |
Photosynthetic; supplemental meaty marine foods |
|
Maximum Size |
Commonly 4–6 inches across; some specimens may grow larger |
|
Placement |
Lower rockwork or protected crevices |
|
Clownfish Hosting |
Not a typical natural host for clownfish |
Additional Care Notes:
Maxi Mini Carpet Anemones are best maintained in mature reef aquariums with stable water chemistry and appropriate lighting. They generally prefer attaching their pedal discs securely within rock crevices while extending their colorful oral discs into the light.
Although they tend to remain more stationary than some other anemone species once established, they can relocate in response to unsuitable lighting, water movement, or environmental changes.
Their sticky tentacles possess potent stinging cells capable of injuring neighboring corals and potentially trapping small fish or invertebrates. Provide adequate separation from other aquarium inhabitants.
Occasional small feedings of thawed mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine shrimp, or similar marine foods are appropriate. Avoid large portions and overfeeding.
As with other photosynthetic anemones, gradual lighting acclimation and consistent aquarium conditions are important for maintaining long-term health and coloration.