New with anemone (eaten by emerald crab?)

[saveourpens]

I have had my tank since 9/21/24 and now have 2 clown fish, 3 corals, 1 emerald crab, about 7 snails and 7 hermit crabs.

One coral died after being eaten by the emerald crab.

I got my first anemone a couple of days ago.

I came home from a run just now to see my new anemone looking like a bald man with a few tentacles left behind. I was afraid of the anemone being hurt by the water pump but it was a good 8 inches away from it. Instead the Emerald crab was right next to it. Anemone was totally fine 1 hour ago.

Do I get rid of the emerald crab (now 2 suspected casulties from it)? Feed it better?

Thank you for any advice.

 

[Reefing102]

Can’t say I’ve heard of emeralds going after anemones but it is likely irritating it being that close

That said, the anemone is likely fine and just balled up (they do that as a reaction/protective measure I believe). It should open up normally once left alone

 

[saveourpens]

Totally right! It’s now “unfurled”. I was so upset but happy that it’s alive

 

[griss]

Yes, I’ve never (40+ years in the hobby) heard of emerald crabs bothering corals or anemones.

What type of anemone is it? FWIW, anemones can be challenging to keep, especially in newer tanks.

 

[saveourpens]

Red bubble tipe anemone. I was told that these are a "beginner" anemone, so far so good aside from the little scare earlier today!

 

[griss]

Yes, BTAs are one of the easiest anemones to keep. Hopes it does well for you.