Mosaic Lemon Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone

The Mosaic Lemon Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone (Stichodactyla tapetum) is a spectacular color variety of the popular Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone, admired for its intricate patterns, brilliant fluorescence, and compact growth habit.

This exceptional specimen features a vibrant mosaic of fluorescent lime-green and lemon-yellow coloration, accented by hundreds of tiny orange-ringed tentacles. Its richly textured oral disc displays intricate radial markings surrounding a contrasting lavender-gray central area and bright golden-yellow mouth. Clusters of slightly elongated green tentacles along the outer margins add another dimension to its remarkable appearance.

Native to the tropical Indo-Pacific, Stichodactyla tapetum is a photosynthetic sea anemone that maintains a symbiotic relationship with microscopic dinoflagellates within its tissues. These symbionts provide nutrients through photosynthesis, while the anemone can also capture small marine prey using specialized stinging cells called nematocysts.

Unlike larger carpet anemones, Maxi Mini Carpet Anemones generally remain relatively compact, making them attractive additions to established reef aquariums. They typically attach their pedal discs to protected rockwork or crevices, extending their colorful oral discs to capture available light.

The Mosaic Lemon Lime variety offers an extraordinary combination of brilliant coloration, complex patterns, and fascinating natural textures, making it a distinctive display specimen for marine aquarium enthusiasts.

This WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) anemone is individually photographed, allowing you to purchase the exact specimen pictured.

Care Guide

Additional Care Notes

Aquarium Environment: The Mosaic Lemon Lime Maxi Mini Carpet Anemone is best maintained in an established marine aquarium with stable water chemistry, suitable illumination, and consistent water circulation. Sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or lighting can cause stress and should be avoided.

Placement and Attachment: Provide stable rockwork with crevices or protected areas where the anemone can securely attach its pedal disc. Maxi Mini Carpet Anemones typically expand their oral discs over nearby surfaces while maintaining a protected attachment point. Although they may remain stationary for extended periods, relocation is possible when environmental conditions change.

Lighting and Water Flow: This photosynthetic anemone benefits from sufficient lighting to support its symbiotic dinoflagellates. Moderate to high reef lighting can be appropriate, provided the animal is acclimated gradually. Gentle to moderate, indirect water movement helps maintain circulation without continuously folding or displacing the oral disc.

Feeding and Nutrition: Photosynthesis contributes to the anemone's nutritional requirements, while captured prey provides additional nutrients. Offer occasional small portions of thawed mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine shrimp, or other appropriately sized marine foods. Avoid excessive feeding and remove uneaten food to preserve water quality.

Compatibility: Maxi Mini Carpet Anemones possess adhesive, stinging tentacles that can injure neighboring corals and potentially trap small fish or invertebrates. Allow sufficient space between the anemone and other aquarium inhabitants. This species is not considered a natural host for clownfish.

Handling and Safety: Avoid unnecessary handling and never forcibly detach an anemone from its attachment surface. The pedal disc is delicate and can be damaged during removal. Protect exposed pump and wavemaker intakes in case the anemone relocates.

Long-Term Care: Healthy specimens generally maintain secure attachment, expand their oral discs regularly, and respond to environmental changes. Persistent contraction, tissue deterioration, loss of attachment, or an abnormally gaping mouth may indicate stress. Color intensity and tentacle expansion can vary with lighting and environmental conditions.