Long Tentacle Anemone
Macrodactyla doreensis
Graceful, swaying tentacles make this anemone a natural centerpiece for clownfish pairings.
About
The long tentacle anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis), sometimes called the corkscrew anemone, is one of the more recognizable anemones in the reef hobby, easily identified by its long, gently tapering tentacles that often develop a slight spiral twist toward their tips. The column is typically buried in sand or soft substrate, with only the oral disc and tentacles visible at the surface. A natural behavior that means your tank setup needs a reasonably deep sand bed to keep this animal comfortable and anchored. Colors vary from brown and green to purple and orange-tipped forms, so there is some visual variety to be found. In the wild, this species occurs across the Indo-Pacific, often on sandy flats near reef edges. It is a popular host anemone for several clownfish species, and watching that symbiotic relationship develop in a home aquarium is one of the real rewards of keeping it. For an anemone, it carries a beginner-friendly reputation, being somewhat more tolerant of typical reef aquarium conditions than some of its relatives. That said, all anemones need stable, well-maintained water and good lighting to thrive long-term, so "beginner-friendly" should not be taken as a reason to cut corners on husbandry.
Similar species
Other invertebrate you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Long Tentacle Anemone
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Long Tentacle Anemone aggressive?
- The Long Tentacle Anemone is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- Is the Long Tentacle Anemone reef safe?
- The Long Tentacle Anemone is generally considered reef safe.