Pink Tube Anemone (Cerianthus Membranaceus)

The Pink Tube Anemone is a beautiful and mesmerizing invertebrate known for its long, flowing tentacles and vibrant pink to purple coloration. Unlike true anemones, this species is a type of tube-dwelling sea anemone, which burrows into the substrate and extends its colorful tentacles to capture food. Its striking appearance and gentle movement make it a captivating centerpiece for any marine aquarium.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Tentacles can extend up to 12 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; larger tanks with soft substrates for burrowing are ideal.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It benefits from regular feedings of planktonic foods or small frozen food to ensure proper nutrition.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Moderate; although it will not actively hunt tankmates, it is capable of stinging and catching small fish and invertebrates that come into contact with its tentacles. Care should be taken when placing it near sensitive corals or small fish.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; while hardy, it requires a soft substrate and moderate water flow to thrive. Regular feeding is essential to maintain its health.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; it may pose a threat to small fish and delicate invertebrates due to its stinging tentacles. However, it does not harm corals and can be placed in a dedicated spot in the aquarium where it will not come into contact with tankmates.

Special Feature - Burrowing Behavior
The Pink Tube Anemone forms a soft, mucus-like tube in the substrate, which it uses to retreat when threatened. Unlike other anemones, it remains anchored in this tube and extends only its tentacles into the water column to feed. Providing a deep sand bed or soft substrate is essential for its burrowing behavior and overall well-being.

Compatibility
Due to its stinging tentacles, the Pink Tube Anemone should be placed carefully in the aquarium to avoid contact with small fish or invertebrates that may be harmed. It is best kept with larger, peaceful tankmates and positioned away from corals or other sensitive organisms.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Pink Tube Anemone features stunning long pink to purple tentacles that wave gently in the current. Its bright coloration and graceful appearance make it an attractive focal point in any tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Pink Tube Anemone is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits sandy or muddy substrates in shallow coastal waters and coral reef areas. It burrows into the substrate, extending its tentacles to capture plankton and other small particles.