The Green Anemone, scientifically known as Anthopleura xanthogrammica, is a striking and fascinating species of sea anemone found along the Pacific coast of North America. These anemones are easily recognizable by their vibrant green color and their ability to grow quite large, making them a prominent fixture in the diverse ecosystems they inhabit.
Description and Characteristics
The Anthopleura xanthogrammica, also known as the Green Anemone, can reach a considerable size, with some individuals attaining a diameter of up to 15 cm. Their most notable feature is their bright green coloration, which can vary in intensity depending on their diet and the presence of symbiotic algae. This vibrant hue is caused by the pigments chlorophyll and carotenoids within their tissues.
The Green Anemone possesses numerous tentacles that surround its central mouth. These tentacles are armed with stinging cells called nematocysts, which they use to capture prey and defend themselves from predators. The tentacles are typically arranged in a spiral pattern around the mouth opening.
The base of the Anthopleura xanthogrammica is attached to a substrate, often rocks or shells, using a sticky pedal disc. This disc allows the anemone to firmly anchor itself in its environment, enabling it to withstand the forces of currents and waves.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Anthopleura xanthogrammica exhibits a wide distribution, inhabiting various marine zones along the Pacific coast of North America. These zones include the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans, spanning from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. They are often found in sheltered areas such as tide pools, rocky reefs, and kelp forests, where they can benefit from the protection offered by these environments.
This widespread occurrence underscores their adaptability to a range of conditions and makes them a significant component of the marine ecosystems they inhabit. They are classified as neritic, indicating their preference for coastal waters and environments close to the shore.
Taxonomy
The Anthopleura xanthogrammica, like all anemones, belongs to the phylum Cnidaria, a diverse group that includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. This specific species falls under the Class: Hexacorallia, a group characterized by having six tentacles or multiples of six. Further, it belongs to the Order: Actiniaria, which encompasses all the solitary sea anemones. Finally, the Green Anemone is a member of the Family: Actiniidae, a large family that comprises a wide variety of sea anemones.
Feeding
The Anthopleura xanthogrammica is a carnivore, primarily feeding on small invertebrates, including crustaceans, fish, and worms. They are also known to scavenge on carrion, opportunistically consuming dead organisms. They use their stinging nematocysts to paralyze prey before bringing it to their mouths.
Additionally, the Green Anemone has a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, a type of single-celled algae that lives within their tissues. These algae provide the anemone with energy through photosynthesis, which is facilitated by the availability of sunlight. The Green Anemone can utilize this energy source, particularly in environments where food availability is limited.
Image References