Purple Heteractis Magnifica Anemone

The Heteractis magnifica, commonly called the Magnificent Sea Anemone, lives up to its name with a striking display of flowing tentacles and vibrant coloration. Found in shallow reef environments across the Indo-Pacific, this species is a true centrepiece for advanced reef aquarists seeking to host clownfish in a natural symbiotic environment.

In the home aquarium, H. magnifica demands attention—and specific care. It can grow quite large (up to 1 metre across in the wild), so it needs a spacious, mature tank of at least 300 litres, with excellent lighting (metal halide, strong LED, or T5s) and stable water parameters. This anemone thrives in intense light and moderate to strong water flow, often positioning itself on rocks or the highest points of the aquascape where it can stretch toward the light.

Magnifica anemones are known to be mobile, especially when first introduced or if conditions are not ideal. Careful placement and protection from powerheads or overflows is essential to avoid injury or damage to other corals during its wandering phase.

They are photosynthetic, thanks to the symbiotic zooxanthellae in their tissues, but they also benefit from regular feedings of finely chopped seafoods like shrimp, mysis, or fish, especially when newly introduced or during recovery.

While stunning, H. magnifica is best suited for experienced aquarists, as it is highly sensitive to changes in water chemistry and flow. It should not be placed in tanks with  poor lighting conditions. However, when well cared for, it will reward its keeper with an incredible display of waving tentacles and a natural host environment for several species of clownfish, including Amphiprion percula, A. ocellaris, and A. clarkii.

Quick Care Guide

• Tank Size: 300L minimum

• Lighting: High (metal halide, LED, or T5)

• Flow: Moderate to strong

• Placement: Rockwork, high in the tank

• Feeding: Occasional, with meaty marine foods
  

• Difficulty: Moderate

A true showstopper, the Heteractis magnifica offers unmatched movement, color, and clownfish hosting behaviour for the dedicated reef aquarist.

Size: XL - Approx 35cm across

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.