Bunodactis rubripunctata

Bunodactis rubripunctata is a species of sea anemone belonging to the family Actiniidae. This captivating creature is renowned for its striking appearance and fascinating biology.

Description & Characteristics

Bunodactis rubripunctata showcases a vibrant, colorful presence within its marine habitat. The sea anemone’s body is generally cylindrical in shape, with a distinct oral disc situated at its top. The oral disc is adorned with numerous tentacles, which are used for capturing prey and for defense. The color of these tentacles can vary, but they often exhibit a striking combination of red, white, and orange hues, with red spots scattered across their surface. The base of the sea anemone, known as the pedal disc, is used for attachment to rocks or other substrates. Bunodactis rubripunctata can reach a maximum size of several centimeters in diameter.

Habitat and Occurrence

Bunodactis rubripunctata is a common sight in the intertidal zone, inhabiting rocky shores and tide pools. It thrives in shallow waters, particularly in the sublittoral zone, which is characterized by depths ranging from a few meters to about 200 meters. This sea anemone exhibits a wide distribution across the globe, found in temperate and tropical waters. The species is particularly prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, where it can be observed clinging to rocks and seaweeds.

Taxonomy

Bunodactis rubripunctata is classified within the order Actiniaria, commonly known as sea anemones. This order belongs to the class Hexacorallia, which comprises a diverse group of marine animals characterized by having six or a multiple of six tentacles. The family Actiniidae is a large and diverse group of sea anemones, known for their diverse forms and colors.

Feeding

Bunodactis rubripunctata is a carnivorous creature, relying on a diet of small marine invertebrates, including crustaceans and fish larvae. It uses its numerous tentacles to capture prey, paralyzing them with stinging nematocysts. These stinging cells are located within specialized structures called cnidocytes and are deployed for defense and to subdue prey. The captured prey is then transported to the sea anemone’s mouth, where it is digested within the gastrovascular cavity.