Actinia equina var. mesembryanthemum 

 A Mediterranean anemone species living just below the high tide mark and up to a depth of two meters. It is found in two colors the brownish red / red shown here and the green. It is better collected underwater and removed with the stone on which it is attached unless you can use a round knife to remove it carefully without damaging its body. It can be found either alone or in groups and it is rather insensitive to temperature and salinity values - although a temperature of 16-20 is preferred. It can even stand short dry out periods. In the aquarium it needs a slight illumination and is better not placed under the light source or very close to the surface. A shaded place is much preferred. Can be fed mussels and fish meals which it will readily accept (see sequence of photos above). To be fed once or twice per week small quantities. This animal opens mainly at night. A magnificent animal and a nice addition to any Mediterranean tank. More photos will soon be added.

Photos: G.Reclos/MCH