Heteractis magnifica
Quick Stats: Ritteri/Magnificent Anemone
Family: Stichodactylidae
Range: Indo-Pacific
Color Form: Red, Pink, Purple, Orange, Green, Blue
Ideal Supplements: Iodine, Trace elements
Tank Set-up: Marine: Coral or rock, sand, gravel, coral rubble
Reef Compatible: Yes
Tank Conditions: 72-78ºF; sg 1.023-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4
Water Flow: High
Light: High
Dominance: Aggressive
Care Level: Difficult
The Ritteri Anemone is also referred to as the Magnificent Anemone, or Heteractis Magnificent Sea Anemone. Some aquarists still refer to it as Radianthus ritteri, but this name was recently changed to the current H. magnifica. It can grow to over three feet in diameter in the wild, although, it generally does not grow larger than 1½ feet in the aquarium. Its tentacles have a long, non-tapering shape that may, on occasion, appear swollen at the tips. They can almost completely retract into the base.
This Anemone requires strong lighting combined with strong, but intermittent, water movement within the tank. It generally prefers a high point in the tank to ensure it obtains all the light it needs, but it may change locations, seeking the ideal conditions. Its strong sting can harm corals. The presence of a Clownfish, such as Amphiprion ocellaris, Amphiprion percula, or Amphiprion perideraion, will help it acclimate. Ritteri Anemones from different locations may serve as hosts to other clownfish, and even shrimp.
The diet should include mussel, fish, crustaceans, and frozen foods.
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