Long Tentacle Anemone

Long Tentacle Anemone: The Sand Dweller

The Long Tentacle Anemone (Macrodactyla doreensis) is one of the more common and hardier large anemones available in the marine aquarium hobby. Also known as the Corkscrew Anemone, Sand Anemone, or Red Base Anemone, it is easily recognized by its long, slender, often wavy tentacles and its column which is frequently a vibrant red or orange (the 'Red Base' moniker). Its oral disc often displays noticeable striping.

Native to the shallow, sandy lagoons of the Indo-Pacific, this anemone is a sand-dweller that buries its 'foot' deep into the substrate, leaving only the tentacles and oral disc exposed. It can grow to a considerable size, reaching a diameter of up to 12 to 20 inches (30-50 cm). Due to its size and mobile nature, a minimum tank size of 50 to 75 gallons is recommended, and it must include a deep sand bed (4-6 inches) to allow it to properly anchor itself.

While generally considered a good choice for intermediate hobbyists, the Long Tentacle Anemone still requires an established system (6+ months old) with very stable water parameters and extreme caution regarding placement of corals and equipment.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This anemone is a Photosynthetic Carnivore. It receives most of its energy from symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) and requires moderate to high lighting (LED, T5, or Metal Halide). Supplemental target feeding is essential for long-term health.
• Feeding: Feed 2-3 times per week with meaty foods, such as pieces of raw marine shrimp, clam, fish flesh, or anemone-specific pellets. The food item should be cut to roughly the size of its mouth and placed directly onto the oral disc.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe With Caution. The anemone is motile (it can move) and its venomous, sweeping tentacles will sting and kill any stationary coral or sessile invertebrate (like clams or small polyps) they touch. It must be given a large, open area on the sand bed, away from all corals.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive / Stinging. While it is a host for several species of clownfish, including the Clarkii (Amphiprion clarkii), Pink Skunk (A.perideraion), and Saddleback (A.polymnus), its stinging cells (nematocysts) pose a threat to small, non-immune fish. All powerheads and overflow intakes must be covered to prevent the anemone from being sucked in.
• Handling Warning: Like all anemones, it possesses stinging cells. Always use gloves during maintenance, and never expose the anemone to air during transfer, as this can cause internal damage to the foot.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Macrodactyla doreensis
• Primary Common Name: Long Tentacle Anemone
• Other Common Names: Corkscrew Anemone, Sand Anemone, Red Base Anemone
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
• Max Size: 12-20 inches (30-50 cm) diameter
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Stinging (Motile)
• Diet: Photosynthetic Carnivore (Requires strong light and target feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50-75+ Gallons (Must have 4-6 inches of sand)
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (Will sting nearby corals)