Rock Flower Anemones (RFAs) are captivating additions to any reef aquarium, celebrated for their vibrant colors and relatively easy care. Based on years of personal observation and hands-on experience maintaining these fascinating invertebrates, here are some essential tips to ensure your rock flower anemones not only survive but thrive in your reef tank.
Feeding Your Rock Flower Anemone
Target feeding is a beneficial practice for rock flower anemones, particularly for younger specimens. Offering meaty foods like mysis shrimp or reef frenzy about once a week can significantly boost their growth rate, especially in their first year and a half. Consistent feeding not only promotes healthy size but is also closely linked to spawning behavior in RFAs.
Encouraging Rock Flower Anemone Spawning
Rock flower anemones can and will reproduce in a home aquarium setting. Spawning events are most likely to occur around the full moon, typically in mid to late fall and spring. To increase the chances of spawning, consistent target feeding around these periods is recommended. Interestingly, a slight temperature drop of one or two degrees during a water change at these times can sometimes act as a trigger for spawning.
Sexing RFAs is impossible to determine visually; only witnessing a spawning event can reveal whether you have males or females. Therefore, acquiring a group of anemones increases the probability of having both sexes present in your reef system.
However, it’s important to note that the survival rate of spawned RFA offspring is typically very low. While experiences may vary, it’s common to observe only a small fraction of baby anemones, perhaps 3 to 5 out of a larger spawn of 40, reaching maturity.
General Rock Flower Anemone Care and Considerations
Rock flower anemones are known for their peaceful nature and possess a relatively weak sting, making them good reef inhabitants. They are generally stationary and don’t move around the tank much once settled. When handling RFAs, avoid using dips as they are sensitive to such treatments.
The primary threats to a healthy RFA are exposure to very cold water, physical damage to their foot, or predation by peppermint shrimp. When purchasing rock flower anemones, carefully inspect them to ensure you are selecting healthy specimens. If buying in bulk, it’s wise to inquire whether they have been treated with antibiotics.
Enjoying Your Rock Flower Anemones
Rock flower anemones are a rewarding addition to a reef tank. They bring vibrant colors and are generally hardy and forgiving, making them excellent citizens of a reef environment. Their stationary nature and peaceful demeanor contribute to a harmonious reef ecosystem.
