Heteractis magnifica
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
1-30 meters
The magnificent sea anemone is the largest and most visually impressive anemone species found in Komodo National Park, and the preferred host for many of the clownfish and anemonefish that call Komodo's reefs home. These substantial cnidarians can reach diameters of over one metre, with a broad oral disc covered in hundreds of thick, finger-like tentacles in shades of purple, green, blue, red, or brown. Like corals, magnificent sea anemones harbour symbiotic zooxanthellae algae in their tissue, giving them their vibrant colours and providing nutrition through photosynthesis. In Komodo, they are found on reef slopes and walls where they receive good light and moderate current, and each large anemone typically hosts a family of anemonefish along with various commensal species including porcelain crabs, cleaner shrimp, and damselfishes. The relationship between the anemone and its fish residents is mutually beneficial — the anemonefish gain protection among the stinging tentacles while the anemone benefits from the fish's territorial defence, nutrient provision, and improved water circulation. Finding a thriving anemone community is like discovering a tiny underwater city.
Average Size
30-60cm diameter
Size Range
10cm-1m diameter
Maximum Size
1m diameter
Derives significant nutrition from symbiotic zooxanthellae algae through photosynthesis. Also captures zooplankton and small fish using stinging nematocysts on its tentacles, and benefits from waste nutrients produced by its anemonefish residents.
The magnificent sea anemone is the largest and most visually impressive anemone species found in Komodo National Park, and the preferred host for many of the clownfish and anemonefish that call Komodo's reefs home. These substantial cnidarians can reach diameters of over one metre, with a broad oral disc covered in hundreds of thick, finger-like tentacles in shades of purple, green, blue, red, or brown. Like corals, magnificent sea anemones harbour symbiotic zooxanthellae algae in their tissue, giving them their vibrant colours and providing nutrition through photosynthesis. In Komodo, they are found on reef slopes and walls where they receive good light and moderate current, and each large anemone typically hosts a family of anemonefish along with various commensal species including porcelain crabs, cleaner shrimp, and damselfishes. The relationship between the anemone and its fish residents is mutually beneficial — the anemonefish gain protection among the stinging tentacles while the anemone benefits from the fish's territorial defence, nutrient provision, and improved water circulation. Finding a thriving anemone community is like discovering a tiny underwater city.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
No encounters shared yet
Be the first to share your sighting of this species!
Yes, the tentacles contain stinging cells called nematocysts. Most people feel a mild sticky sensation, but some species can cause a painful sting on sensitive skin. Avoid touching them with bare hands.
