Anemone for a 33G ?

[PhNixx]

I have a 33 gal (18" high) tank and I would like to keep an anemone for my black and true perc. What type of anemone would might my perc's like and do good in this small of a reef. A pink tip maybe? I know they might not host it but would like to see what choices I have for my tank size.
Possably Stichodactyla haddoni, Saddle Carpet, saddleback anemone, Haddoni anemone? Has anyone had these types of clowns host these? Heteractis magnifica is common to both my clowns. However, if I remember right that thing gets huge. I think it would get too big for my 33.
Right now they are hosting the return from my skimmer but I'd rather have them host an anemone if possable. What light should they have? I'm thinking of going to one or maybe two 175W MH in about 8 mo (waiting until current lighting needs new bulbs).

 

[SnowManSnow]

HI nixx,

I have a 37 G reef tank, so we are pretty close in dimensions. A LOT has to do with your lighting... you may want to wait untill you upgrade lighting to do the anemone thing. IMO you would be fine with 250w for 33 G.

Your right about the carpet.. they can grow to over 3 feet across.. although it may take a while in captivity.

I would suggest a BTA (Bubble Tip Anemone). I've just added one to my tank actually... I have 130w of PC lighting.. I wouldn't recommend ANY anemone for anything less than that.. I'm actually riding a narrow fence myself here.

He's been in for almost a week, and seems to have moved to a place where he seems to be quite happy

SOOOO.. my bid is for a BTA for the 33g... if you have the min light requirements.

Hope this helps!

B. Snow

 

[ChrisRD]

A BTA or a Condy would be a good choice for your first anemone as they tend to be the hardiest of the bunch. Although neither is actually a natural host to your percs, they may take to it. The rest of the hosting anemones are generally considered more difficult to keep. Do some searches on the board and you should turn-up a lot of information. Also, check into Joyce Wilkerson's book on Clownfishes - it's got some good information on host anemones and surrogate hosts (check the reading list in our library).

Although BTAs and Condys will survive with less, the general consensus among experienced reefkeepers seems to be that halide lighting is best for them. Many people have the misconception that Condys don't like strong lighting because you'll often see them in a dimly lit holding tank at the LFS, but this is not really the case. Long-term they will need adequate lighting to thrive.

Anyway, IMO you definitely want to upgrade your normal output fluorescent lighting to at least PC/VHO/T-5 before putting any anemone in your tank...

HTH

 

[Anonymous]

I second Chris's advice..Id avoid a carpet too since they do have a tendancy to eat other things also, more than a BTA if im not mistaken...BTA's and Condy's are pretty and usually cheaper and hardier...definetly beginners choices...Lighting is very important to an anemone and should be a priority when choosing an animal for your tank..keep in mind making the decisions based on the needs of the critters you plan on keeping...