Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone
The Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is a spectacular color variety of the popular Bubble Tip Anemone, celebrated for its intense fluorescence, fiery tentacles, and mesmerizing natural movement.
This exceptional specimen displays a striking turquoise-blue oral disc illuminated by brilliant fluorescent green radial markings. Its densely arranged tentacles feature vivid orange-red coloration, contrasting green bases, and delicate pale speckling. The tentacles vary from elongated, gracefully curved forms to shorter structures with slightly swollen tips, creating an extraordinary combination of texture and color.
Native to tropical Indo-Pacific reefs, Entacmaea quadricolor is a photosynthetic sea anemone that maintains a symbiotic relationship with microscopic dinoflagellates within its tissues. These symbionts provide an important source of energy through photosynthesis, while the anemone can supplement its nutritional requirements by capturing small marine prey.
Bubble Tip Anemones are also known for their natural relationships with several species of clownfish. Their tentacles provide shelter for compatible clownfish, although hosting behavior varies between individual animals.
The Ultra Sunburst variety is especially appealing for its dramatic combination of glowing green fluorescence, vivid orange-red tentacles, and contrasting blue-green central coloration. Its flowing tentacles add movement and visual interest, making it an outstanding centerpiece for an established reef aquarium.
This WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) specimen is individually photographed, allowing you to purchase the exact anemone pictured.
Care Guide
|
Care Requirement |
Recommendation |
|---|---|
|
Scientific Name |
Entacmaea quadricolor |
|
Common Name |
Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone |
|
Care Level |
Moderate |
|
Minimum Aquarium Size |
30 gallons or larger recommended; stability and available space are essential |
|
Temperament |
Semi-aggressive; can sting neighboring corals |
|
Reef Compatibility |
Reef compatible with caution |
|
Lighting |
Moderate to high, with gradual acclimation |
|
Water Flow |
Moderate, indirect, variable flow |
|
Temperature |
76–80°F |
|
Salinity |
1.025–1.026 specific gravity |
|
pH |
8.1–8.4 |
|
Alkalinity |
8–12 dKH; prioritize stability |
|
Diet |
Photosynthetic with supplemental marine meaty foods |
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Maximum Size |
May reach approximately 16 inches across |
|
Placement |
Stable rockwork with protected crevices |
|
Clownfish Hosting |
Natural host for several clownfish species; hosting is not guaranteed |
Additional Care Notes
Aquarium Environment: The Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone is best maintained in a mature marine aquarium with stable water chemistry, appropriate illumination, and consistent water circulation. Sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or lighting can cause stress, particularly during initial acclimation.
Placement and Attachment: Provide secure rockwork with natural crevices where the anemone can anchor its pedal disc. Bubble Tip Anemones naturally attach to hard surfaces and often position their bodies within protected areas while extending their tentacles toward available light. Allow sufficient room for expansion and possible movement.
Lighting and Water Flow: As a photosynthetic species, Entacmaea quadricolor depends on adequate lighting to support its symbiotic dinoflagellates. Moderate to high reef lighting is generally appropriate when introduced gradually. Provide moderate, indirect water movement that allows the tentacles to move naturally without being continuously forced against surrounding surfaces.
Feeding and Nutrition: Photosynthesis supplies an important portion of the anemone's energy requirements. Occasional supplemental feeding with small portions of thawed mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine shrimp, or other appropriately sized marine foods may provide additional nutrition. Avoid large portions and remove uneaten food to maintain water quality.
Compatibility: Bubble Tip Anemones possess stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals and other sessile invertebrates. Provide adequate separation from nearby livestock and allow for possible relocation. Compatible clownfish may develop a natural hosting relationship, although individual behavior varies.
Handling and Safety: Minimize direct handling and avoid damaging the delicate pedal disc. Never forcibly pull an attached anemone from rockwork. Protect powerhead and pump intakes with suitable guards, especially while the anemone is acclimating or moving.
Long-Term Care: Healthy specimens generally display secure attachment, regular expansion, and responsive feeding behavior. Temporary contraction can occur naturally, but persistent deflation, tissue deterioration, prolonged mouth gaping, or loss of attachment may indicate stress. Tentacle shape and color intensity may vary with lighting and environmental conditions.