Magnificent Sea Anemone - Heteractis magnifica

Magnificent Sea Anemone (Heteractis magnifica)

Magnificent Sea Anemone is a spectacular host anemone known for its impressive size, bold presence and long flowing tentacles. When healthy and settled, it can become a stunning centrepiece in a mature reef aquarium, especially for experienced keepers looking to provide a natural home for compatible clownfish species. This is a demanding marine invertebrate that requires excellent water quality, strong lighting and stable reef conditions.

Common Name:
Magnificent Sea Anemone, Ritteri Anemone, Magnifica Anemone, Magnificent Anemone

Scientific Name (Latin):
Heteractis magnifica

Coral Type:
Anemone

Growth Form:
Large fleshy anemone with a strong pedal disc, broad oral disc and long flowing tentacles.

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
Magnificent Sea Anemones are found across Indo-Pacific reef environments, often on exposed reef slopes, upper reef structures and high rockwork where they receive intense tropical light, strong water movement and very stable marine conditions.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Alkalinity: 7–10 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nitrate: Low but detectable
Phosphate: Low but detectable

Lighting:
HIGH
Magnificent Sea Anemone requires strong reef lighting to support its symbiotic zooxanthellae. It should only be kept under capable reef lighting and introduced carefully, as sudden changes in intensity can cause stress. A gradual acclimation period is recommended, especially if moving from lower light to a brighter aquarium.

Flow:
MEDIUM TO HIGH
Provide moderate to strong, indirect and varied flow. The tentacles should move naturally without being constantly blasted in one direction. Good water movement helps oxygenate the anemone and prevents debris from settling, but harsh direct flow may cause it to move or remain retracted.

Placement:
Place on secure upper rockwork where the anemone can attach its foot firmly and receive strong light and flow. Magnificent Sea Anemones often choose their own position and may move until conditions suit them. Keep powerheads, wavemakers and overflow areas protected, and allow plenty of space from corals, as the anemone can sting nearby livestock.

Temperament / Aggression:
Aggressive
Magnificent Sea Anemone has a strong sting and can damage corals or other sessile invertebrates if it moves or expands into them. It should be given generous space and kept in aquariums where surrounding corals can be protected from contact.

Feeding:
Photosynthetic, but benefits from feeding
This anemone receives much of its energy from light through its symbiotic zooxanthellae, but it benefits from occasional feeding. Suitable foods include small pieces of mysis, krill, chopped prawn, mussel and other marine meaty foods. Feed sparingly, using appropriately sized portions, and avoid overfeeding as this can reduce water quality.

Growth Rate:
Moderate
In a stable, mature reef aquarium, Magnificent Sea Anemone can expand significantly and may grow into a large centrepiece animal. Healthy growth depends on strong lighting, suitable flow, stable salinity and excellent water quality.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Magnificent Sea Anemone is best suited to experienced reef keepers with a mature, stable aquarium. It is sensitive to poor water quality, unstable salinity, sudden parameter changes and inadequate lighting. Ensure all pumps and wavemakers are guarded before introduction, as wandering anemones can be seriously injured by exposed equipment. Avoid rough handling, inspect carefully before introduction and allow the anemone time to attach naturally. A healthy specimen should have a firm, responsive body, good inflation and a closed mouth.

Suitable for:
Experienced reefkeepers

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on colour intensity, supplier naming and season.

All images are a visual representation of the anemone you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns, colours and growth form will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.