Heteractis Aurora sp. - Sand Anemone

Heteractis aurora, commonly known as the beaded sea anemone or sand anemone, is a species of sea anemone in the family Stichodactylidae. Here’s a brief overview:

Description

• Appearance: The anemone has a characteristic look with bulbous tentacles often adorned with small bead-like swellings, which give it a unique and textured appearance. The coloration can vary widely, including shades of brown, green, purple, or white, often influenced by the presence of symbiotic zooxanthellae.
• Size: It can grow up to 20-30 cm in diameter, with tentacles extending farther.

Habitat

• Location: Found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific Ocean.
• Environment: Prefers sandy or muddy substrates, often burying its base while spreading its tentacles above the sediment. It can also be found among coral reefs.

Behavior and Ecology

• Symbiosis: Like many sea anemones, it has a mutualistic relationship with zooxanthellae, which provide nutrients through photosynthesis.
• Host: Occasionally serves as a host to certain species of clownfish, though not as commonly as some other anemones like Heteractis magnifica.
• Feeding: Feeds on small fish, plankton, and other particulate matter, capturing prey with its stinging tentacles.

Aquarium Care

While it can be kept in marine aquariums, Heteractis aurora requires stable water conditions, high lighting to support its symbiotic algae, and sufficient space due to its potential size. It's considered challenging to care for, especially for beginners.