Bubble Tip Anemone (BTA)
Bubble Tip Anemone (BTA)
Species: Entacmaea quadricolor
Growth Form: Attached anemone
Coloration: Green, rose, rainbow, orange
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Tank Size: 40+ gallons
Placement: Rockwork (self-selecting)
Lighting: Moderate to high
Flow: Moderate, indirect
Diet: Carnivorous & photosynthetic
Feeding: Mysis, brine, chopped seafood (1–2× weekly)
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution (can sting corals)
Care Level: Moderate
Bubble Tip Anemone (BTA)-WYSIWYG
Scientific Name: Entacmaea quadricolor
Common Names: Bubble Tip Anemone, Rose BTA (color variants)
Overview
The Bubble Tip Anemone is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly anemones in the reef hobby. Known for its iconic bubble-shaped tentacles (which may come and go), vibrant coloration, and compatibility with clownfish, BTAs make a stunning centerpiece for established reef aquariums.
Growth & Appearance
-
Growth Form: Attached anemone with a pedal disc
-
Size: 6–12 inches when fully expanded
-
Coloration: Green, rose/red, rainbow, orange, and multi-color morphs
-
Tentacles: Can appear bubbled or elongated depending on conditions
Temperament & Compatibility
-
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
-
Clownfish Hosting: Yes (most clownfish species)
-
Coral Compatibility: Use caution — can sting nearby corals
-
Invertebrates: Generally safe, but may capture very small shrimp or fish
Tank Requirements
-
Minimum Tank Size: 40+ gallons
-
Tank Maturity: 6+ months (stable, established system required)
-
Placement: Rockwork (will choose its own spot)
-
Movement: Can move until it finds ideal conditions
Lighting Requirements
-
Lighting: Moderate to high
-
Preferred Spectrum: Full reef spectrum (strong blue presence)
-
Notes: Strong lighting supports zooxanthellae and vibrant coloration
Water Flow
-
Flow: Moderate, indirect
-
Avoid: Direct, blasting flow which can cause stress or movement
Diet & Feeding
-
Diet: Carnivorous & photosynthetic
-
Foods:
-
Mysis shrimp
-
Brine shrimp
-
Chopped shrimp, fish, or clam
-
-
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per week (optional but beneficial)
Water Parameters (Recommended)
-
Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F)
-
Salinity: 1.025–1.026
-
pH: 8.1–8.4
-
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
-
Nitrates: Low but detectable
-
Phosphates: Low
Reef Safety
-
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution
-
Notes: Ensure adequate spacing from corals due to stinging tentacles
Care Level
-
Care Level: Moderate
-
Best For: Hobbyists with stable, mature reef systems
Fun Fact
Bubble Tip Anemones can reproduce asexually by splitting — a healthy, happy BTA may eventually turn into two!