Red Bubble Tip Anemone ( Entacmaea quadricolor) Description: The Red Bubble Tip Anemone (RBTA) is one of the most popular and visually stunning anemones in the marine hobby. Its vibrant red to rose-coloured tentacles, often tipped with bulbous “bubbles,” create a captivating centerpiece in any reef aquarium. Under blue or actinic lighting, its radiant hues intensify, adding warmth and movement to your display. Known for forming symbiotic relationships with clownfish species such as Amphiprion ocellaris and A. percula, the Red Bubble Tip Anemone provides both aesthetic beauty and natural behavior for hosting fish. It’s a hardy and adaptable anemone once settled, making it a favorite choice for both novice and experienced reef keepers alike. Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Semi-aggressive (mobile; may sting nearby corals) Reef Safe: With Caution (requires space and stable conditions) Placement: On rockwork or crevices where its foot can securely attach; allow space for movement. Ideal Water Parameters
Parameter
Ideal Range
Temperature:
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity:
1.024–1.026 SG
pH:
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity:
8–10 dKH
Calcium:
420–450 ppm
Magnesium:
1300–1400 ppm
Nitrate:
2–10 ppm
Phosphate:
<0.05 ppm
Flow:
Moderate, indirect
Lighting:
Moderate to high (PAR 150–250); thrives under strong reef lighting or LEDs
Feeding & Nutrition: The Red Bubble Tip Anemone contains symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide much of its nutrition through photosynthesis. However, supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week with small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or finely chopped seafood will promote faster growth, vibrant colouration, and successful propagation. Notes:
Requires stable water parameters and a mature aquarium (6+ months recommended).
May move until it finds a suitable location — ensure powerhead intakes are covered.
Avoid close proximity to other corals or anemones to prevent stinging interactions.
Ideal for pairing with hosting clownfish species for natural symbiosis.
Quick Summary:
Scientific Name: Entacmaea quadricolor
Common Name: Red Bubble Tip Anemone / RBTA
Type: Anemone (Cnidaria)
Difficulty: Moderate
Lighting: Moderate to High (150–250 PAR)
Flow: Moderate, Indirect
Placement: Rockwork or Crevices (Allow Space)
Reef Safe: With Caution