Long Tentacle Anemone

The Long Tentacle Anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis) is a semi-aggressive species that is considered reef-safe with caution, admired for its flowing tentacles, striking colors (brown, green, red, or purple hues), and its symbiotic relationship with clownfish.

Males and females are not visibly distinguishable (anemones reproduce both sexually and asexually), while juveniles are typically smaller and lighter in coloration before developing their full vibrancy.

They reach about 8–20 inches in diameter when fully expanded and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50–75 gallons. Provide a deep sandbed (3–4 inches) for burrowing, stable live rock for support, and moderate open space for tentacle extension. Stable water parameters are essential: salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, and pH 8.1–8.4. While they don’t “jump” like fish, they can detach and move around, so strong flow guards and secure aquascaping are important to prevent accidents with pumps.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, silversides, chopped seafood, and occasional supplemental feedings of high-quality frozen carnivore blends. They also host symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, deriving nutrition from light, so provide moderate to strong reef lighting.

With proper care, this anemone makes a stunning centerpiece in the aquarium and can even form a natural partnership with clownfish species, creating one of the ocean’s most iconic displays.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.