Chicago Sunburst Anemone

Entacmea quadricolor - The Chicago Sunburst Anemone is one of the most sought-after bubble tip anemones in the reef aquarium hobby. It is a strain of the Bubble Tip Anemone known for its exceptionally bright, vivid coloration, a striking combination of fiery orange, yellow, green, and deep red hues resembling a sunburst. While it’s not a separate species, its popularity comes from selective propagation and cultivation in captivity, making its coloration more consistent and intense than typical wild caught specimens. Chicago Sunburst Anemones often reproduce asexually by splitting, allowing reefers to keep this desirable morph going in captivity.

Like other bubble tip anemones, the Chicago Sunburst can move around the tank until it finds an ideal location with the right lighting and flow. It has a semi-aggressive nature and may sting nearby corals, so it should be given ample space. Hosting clownfish can be beneficial, as they often form symbiotic relationships, providing protection and interaction for both the anemone and fish.

This anemone thrives under moderate to high-intensity lighting and benefits from stable water parameters. A mature, well-established aquarium is recommended. While it can derive some nutrition from photosynthesis, occasional feedings of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood will support its health and growth.

Important Notes:

• This anemone may split naturally through asexual reproduction, creating clones over time.
• If it begins to move excessively, it may be searching for a better location due to lighting, flow, or water quality changes.
• Always use anemone guards on wavemakers and pumps to prevent injury.
• Avoid keeping this strain with other anemone strains or species.

Add a stunning burst of color to your reef tank with the Chicago Sunburst Anemone, a showpiece anemone that thrives in well-maintained systems.