Red Fire Anemone

Actinodendron sp.

Identification	A branching, tree-like sand anemone with feathery, arm-like tentacles, here in vivid red — the notorious “Hell’s Fire” Anemone. It retracts entirely into the sand when disturbed.
Maximum Length	about 6–10″
Origin	Indo-Pacific sand and rubble bottoms
Minimum Tank Size	30 Gal.
Reef Compatibility	Not reef safe — extreme caution

Behavior

A sand-dwelling anemone that anchors its foot deep in the substrate and spreads feathery, branching tentacles, retracting completely into the sand if threatened. Despite the “anemone” name it is not a clownfish host, and it is best treated as a hazardous specimen animal rather than a community invert.

Diet & Feeding

Photosynthetic, and it also captures meaty prey. Target-feed small pieces of shrimp or fish occasionally, and provide good light.

Cautions

Delivers one of the most severe, blistering stings in the hobby — the “Hell’s Fire” name is earned. Never touch it without heavy gloves, and keep it far from corals and other inverts, which it will sting and kill. It can wander and sting anything it contacts. House it alone or well isolated; not a beginner animal.