LiveAquaria Acrozoanthus Stick Polyps
Acrozoanthus Stick Polyps are colonial animals with multiple tan or brown individual polyps attached to the discarded or dead tubes of tubeworms or fanworms. The colony is also referred to as Encrusting Stick Anemones, or Tree Polyps. The polyps have long tentacles and the ability to sting other polyps or corals, although the sting is not strong.
Stick/Tree Polyps are semi-aggressive and need space between their own colony and other corals. They require a high light level combined with a medium water movement within the aquarium. For continued good health, they also require the addition of iodine and other trace elements to the water.
They will reproduce in the reef aquarium on their own by budding (splitting off a portion of their base or mouth), if adequate water conditions are met.
| Key Features |
|---|
| Colonial polyps with tan or brown color |
| Attached to dead tubeworm or fanworm tubes |
| Long tentacles with mild stinging capability |
| Requires high light and medium water flow |
| Needs iodine and trace elements for health |
| Self-reproduces via budding |
FAQ
What is the recommended lighting for Stick/Tree Polyps?
High light level is required for optimal growth and health.
Do Stick/Tree Polyps need to be kept separately from other corals?
Yes, they are semi-aggressive and require space between their colony and other corals to prevent stinging.
How do Stick/Tree Polyps reproduce in the aquarium?
They reproduce through budding, where a portion of their base or mouth splits off to form a new colony.

Jack Rutherford –
The polyps arrived healthy and settled well in my reef tank. I provided high light and medium flow as recommended. They’ve grown steadily and are now forming a small colony. The stinging is mild and only affects nearby polyps, not my main corals.
Hannah Mathis –
I placed them in a well-lit corner with good water movement. They’ve been stable for several months. I added iodine weekly as advised and noticed better coloration. A bit of caution needed with other corals nearby.
Donna Mathis –
Great addition to my tank. The polyps are active and colorful. I didn’t have any issues with stinging, and they’ve reproduced naturally after a few months. Easy to maintain with proper lighting and trace elements.