The Golden Delicious Anemone, scientifically known as Condylactis aurantiaca, is a captivating marine invertebrate belonging to the class Hexacorallia, order Actiniaria, and family Actiniidae. This anemone, with its vibrant golden hues, adds a touch of brilliance to the underwater world.
Description & Characteristics
The Golden Delicious Anemone is a striking creature, featuring a cylindrical body adorned with numerous tentacles arranged in whorls. These tentacles, which are covered in stinging cells called nematocysts, serve as both defense mechanisms and tools for capturing prey. The color of this anemone varies from a deep orange to a vibrant golden yellow, giving rise to its common name. It can reach a maximum size of up to 15 cm in diameter, showcasing its impressive size.
Habitat and Occurrence
Condylactis aurantiaca is a highly adaptable anemone, inhabiting a wide range of marine environments. It thrives in the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, extending its presence to the deep zone of the oceans, from the lower limit of the intertidal zone down to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This makes Condylactis aurantiaca a common sight in neritic zones, where it plays an important role in the ecosystem.
Taxonomy
Condylactis aurantiaca is classified within the class Hexacorallia, a group of corals and anemones known for their hexagonal symmetry. It belongs to the order Actiniaria, which comprises solitary sea anemones. Finally, it is a member of the family Actiniidae, a diverse group of anemones that includes many colorful and fascinating species.
Feeding
The Golden Delicious Anemone derives sustenance from a combination of sources. It exhibits a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, microscopic algae that reside within its tissues. These algae photosynthesize, providing the anemone with a source of energy. Additionally, the anemone supplements its diet by capturing small invertebrates, using its stinging tentacles to paralyze and consume them. The anemone’s feeding behavior is influenced by the availability of light, as the zooxanthellae require sunlight for photosynthesis.
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