Posted by Buddy on February 06, 2003 at 09:53:48:
In Reply to: What should I know before buying an anemone posted by mepeuser on January 26, 2003 at 22:24:06:
Hi matt, ill make this short as possible, Before considering giving anemones a try, you must beware that their survival rate in captivity is not high. Unfortunately, all too often, aquarists find their anemone slowly shrinking over time. If you are willing to follow the advice of those who have been successful, you should have a better chance of maintaining these beautiful animals.
Anemones, like corals and clams, have living within their tissue, small single celled algae called zooxanthellae. Zooxanthellae provide the anemone with nutrition, through performing photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants form carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water. This process is regulated by sunlight and plant chlorophyll. Anemones gain a great deal of their nutrition through this process. Althought it is said that they obtain up to 90% of their energy through photosynthesis, they still must be fed. In the wild, anemones feed on planktonic organisms and fish waste. In the closed system, they will accept a broad range of foods.
Many fish treat anemones, as well as other invertebrates, as food rather than tankmates. Research each specimen well before adding into your system. When ever there is a sick fish, it needs to be removed to a hospital tank, copper is very deadly to the anemone as well as other invertebrates
Anemones unlike corals can move around, so if you plan on having other corals, anemones move about when water conditions is not to thier liking, as of lightings, you either get VHO`s or metal halide lighting, metal halide light penetrates deeper into the water, but remember , intense lighting affects the temperture of your aquarium. If the anemone is shrinking slowly over time, this may be an indication that it is not getting proper amount of light for it`s zooxanthellae or water quality is not up to what it should be.
There is much more to concider as well, but this is to give you an idea of these animals care and requirements.
Sorry i got to run now, got to baby sit again, i saw you post few days ago but couldn`t respond till now.
><{{{{"> Buddy
:Well, as part of my research of anemones, in the hopes of buying one, I have come looking for help. If anyone would be willing to give me some free advice that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
:Matt
