My Hectoractis Magnifica Split

[swiseman]

I had one large Hectoractis Magnifica that has been with me for 8 years. I noticed a a few weeks ago that it appeared to be getting more narrow in the middle. I never gave it much thought as the anemone has grown a fair amount in the last year do to the increased feedings of meaty foods since the addition of a school of Anthias. Well today as I was about to clean the glass I thought it odd that only one side had closed up. Upon closer look, I saw that there was a complete seperetion down the middle and now both halves have an established foot on the column. I was under the impression that this was a fairly rare occurrence with this species of anemone. The anemone was about 15" or so across prior to the split. I will try and get a few pictures when the lights come on and I have a chance to clean the glass.

 

[BonsaiNut]

Congratulations! It is actually a common occurrence if you have good tank conditions for this species. Because it tends to be large, and likes bright lighting, not as many people can offer it the conditions it needs to thrive. In Tahiti there are extensive sections of reef COVERED with these anemones due to their speed of asexual reproduction. They tend to get wiped out when big storms come through.

By the way - the genus name is "Heteractis".

 

[jmadison]

Congratulations on the good animal husbandry!

 

[Jasanden]

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