Archivarium 2004

[juice28]

whats the general opinion of rose bubble-tipped anemones as hosts for clowns? Are they well-taken too? Are there any concerns regarding their care that are out of the ordinary? I'm in the process of selecting an anemone for my clowns, but would like to make sure that I choose an acceptable specimen!
thanks...

[The Old Salt]

Well, if you want my honest opinion, there IS no acceptable anemone for aquarium use, especially when desired merely for the benefit of captive clownfish which don't need them anyway.
Now that the coral farmers have perfected the methods needed for mass-culture of corals, it sure would be nice if they'd shift some of their attention toward the propagation of anemones.

[DanG]

I have a green BTA and my maroon clown was in it within the first 5 or hours it was in the tank. Now he barely leaves it.

[sirreal63]

It is hit or miss, but a lot depends on your system. Adequate light and flow are important, but consistant water quality is of high importance. If your water quality is not stable and in good condition, you can't keep one. You should defintely re-think it though. Unless your system is stable and mature, it is a gamble and if one dies on you while you are away, it can make a huge mess of your tank...they rot rapidly causing other problems. W/O knowing more about your setup, it is impossible to say if you can keep one healthy or not. If in doubt, don't do it. Keeping it alive just doesn't cut it, you want to keep it healthy and growing.

I have a green bta and a pair of percula's...they won't go anywhere near the anemone. Mine was a rescue and recovered nicely, but I wouldn't recommend anyone doing that. Rescue's are difficult to say the least.
_________________
Jack
29 gallon planted various fish
58 gallon salt, 30g fuge
75 gallon planted, 5.45 wpg

[KDodds]

Virtually all of the RBTAs being sold now are captive propagated. That does not, however, make them an easier than their brethren. A well-matured tank and years of successful marine experience are DEFINITELY required. RBTAs have no requirements beyond any BTAs, but again, that doesn't mean they're easy, not by a long shot. As to whether your Clowns will "take to it", it can be a toss up, even with species that will normally use Entacmaea quadricolor in the wild, such as the Maroon.
_________________
Kieron Dodds
Inside Aquatics
www.insideaquatics.com

[FloridaBoy]

Juice, here is a lengthy article that may help you... be advised, I am not suggesting you get an anemone, as I have discouraged many from even trying them; only shifting you to more info.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/inverts/cnidaria/anthozoa/bubbletipanemones.htm
_________________
Keepin' marines happy for 25 years

[juice28]

thanks for the info guys, I appreciate the feedback!