Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone

The Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone (Entacmaea quadricolor) is a spectacular color variety of the popular Bubble Tip Anemone, prized for its brilliant fluorescence, vibrant coloration, and flowing tentacles.

This exceptional specimen features a luminous emerald-green oral disc with intricate turquoise and yellow-green radial markings, surrounded by a magnificent display of fiery orange-red tentacles. The tentacles transition from green and bronze near their bases to vivid orange tips, creating an extraordinary contrast of color. Some display slightly swollen, bubble-shaped ends, while others extend into long, graceful formations.

Native to tropical Indo-Pacific reefs, Entacmaea quadricolor is a photosynthetic sea anemone that maintains a symbiotic relationship with microscopic dinoflagellates living within its tissues. These organisms provide an important source of energy through photosynthesis, while the anemone can supplement its nutrition by capturing small marine prey.

Bubble Tip Anemones are also recognized for their fascinating natural relationships with several species of clownfish. Their tentacles provide shelter for compatible clownfish, while the fish may contribute nutrients and help defend the anemone from certain predators.

The Ultra Sunburst coloration combines intense orange-red tentacles with brilliant green fluorescence, creating a remarkable centerpiece for an established saltwater aquarium. Its constantly shifting tentacles add natural movement and visual interest to the reef environment.

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

Care Guide

Additional Care Notes

Aquarium Environment: The Ultra Sunburst Bubble Tip Anemone is best maintained in a mature marine aquarium with stable water chemistry, appropriate lighting, and consistent water circulation. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, salinity, or other water parameters, particularly during acclimation.

Placement and Attachment: Provide stable rockwork with protected crevices where the anemone can anchor its pedal disc. Once settled, the anemone typically extends its tentacles into the surrounding water while maintaining a secure attachment. Bubble Tip Anemones may relocate in response to changes in lighting, circulation, or other environmental conditions.

Lighting and Water Flow: As a photosynthetic species, Entacmaea quadricolor requires adequate illumination to support its symbiotic dinoflagellates. Moderate to high reef lighting is generally suitable when introduced gradually. Provide moderate, indirect water movement that allows the tentacles to sway naturally without being continuously pushed against surrounding surfaces.

Feeding and Nutrition: Photosynthesis supplies an important portion of the anemone's nutritional needs. Occasional supplemental feeding with small portions of thawed mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine shrimp, or other appropriately sized marine foods can provide additional nutrients. Avoid excessive feeding and remove uneaten food to help maintain water quality.

Compatibility: Bubble Tip Anemones possess stinging tentacles that can damage neighboring corals and other sessile invertebrates. Provide sufficient space for expansion and potential movement. Compatible clownfish may establish a natural hosting relationship, although individual behavior varies.

Handling and Safety: Minimize direct handling and avoid touching or damaging the delicate pedal disc. Never forcibly pull an attached anemone from rockwork. Protect powerhead and pump intakes with appropriate guards, particularly during acclimation when the anemone may move.

Long-Term Care: Healthy specimens generally maintain secure attachment, regular tentacle expansion, and responsive feeding behavior. Temporary contraction is normal, but persistent deflation, tissue deterioration, prolonged mouth gaping, or loss of attachment may indicate stress. Tentacle shape and color intensity can vary with lighting and environmental conditions.