Maroon clown fish tearing anemone

[James7733]

Does anyone know why a clown fish that was once very protective of a sebae anemone would suddenly start tearing its tentacles off. From what I observed the tentacles seemed small like they were somewhat new. He did this twice so I shielded the anemone with rock work and made sure it still receives light and water current.

 

[steve&mari]

From what I've read and understand maroon clown fish are extremely aggressive with hosting nems. Been known to love and clean them to death. It could be trying to clean the small tentacles so roughly it's ripping off accidentally. Our lightning maroon clown is aggressive with her nem when cleaning.