Tan Carpet Anemone

The Invertebrate Tan Carpet Anemone (Stichodactyla sp.) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its large, flat carpet-like oral disc, tan to light brown coloration, vibrant tentacle tips, and unique ability to host clownfish.

Males typically remain similar in appearance to females, with slight differences in size during breeding, while females/juveniles are smaller, less colorful, and gradually develop the full carpet size as they mature. They reach about 12–16 inches in diameter and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50–75 gallons.

Provide a stable sandbed, plenty of live rock for attachment, open swimming space around the disc, and hiding spots nearby. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and use a secure lid, as many carpet anemones are prone to moving or “jumping.”

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, small crustaceans, and occasional finely chopped meaty foods. With proper care, the Tan Carpet Anemone makes a striking and interactive centerpiece in a reef aquarium, especially when hosting clownfish.

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.