More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 113 litres / 29.85 US gallons |
| Reef Compatible | With Caution |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
| Care Description | Difficult |
| Water Flow | Medium |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Haddon's Carpet Anemone, scientifically known as Stichodactyla haddoni, is a solitary creature found in the shallow waters of the Indo Pacific and Red Sea. Often growing up to 3 feet in diameter, this anemone can be recognized by its short, blunt tentacles and lack of coloration on its underside or column. It is also referred to as Haddon's Anemone, Saddle Anemone, Saddle Carpet Anemone, or Saddleback Anemone.
Aquarium Suitability
With its aggressive temperament and potent sting, the Haddon's Carpet Anemone is a challenging species to keep, making it more suitable for experienced aquarists. It requires a well-established tank with strong lighting, good water movement, and a minimum tank size of 113 litres.
Care and Hardiness
This anemone demands precise water chemistry (KH: 8-12, pH: 8.1-8.4, SG: 1.023-1.025) along with supplements of Strontium, Iodine, and Trace Elements. Weekly or daily feeding of fresh fish, uncooked shrimp, or other meaty marine foods is essential for its nourishment.
Reef Suitability
The Haddon's Carpet Anemone is considered reef-compatible with caution due to its aggressive nature and potential to harm corals and other anemones within a 12" diameter.
Aquarium Setup
When adding the Haddon's Carpet Anemone to the aquarium, it is crucial to provide a mix of sandy and rocky locations for it to move around and burrow. Care should be taken when acclimating it to the tank to prevent displacing it and causing stress.
Behaviour
This anemone may eat fish in the aquarium, making it incompatible with species other than Clownfish. It buries its foot in the sandy substrate and attaches itself to the aquarium glass for protection, displaying a sticky texture that can be challenging to handle.
Feeding and Diet
To thrive, the Haddon's Carpet Anemone requires regular feeding of meaty marine foods like fresh fish or shrimp. It can cause severe reactions in humans, emphasizing the need for cautious handling.
Dimorphism
Captive reproduction of the Haddon's Carpet Anemone is not mentioned in the provided information.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, the Haddon's Carpet Anemone is commonly found outside of the reef, residing in soft muddy or sandy substrate. Its distribution spans the Indo Pacific region and the Red Sea.