The Orange Anemone, scientifically known as Diadumene cincta, is a captivating species of sea anemone found in diverse marine environments. This striking creature is recognized by its vibrant orange coloration and captivating tentacles, making it a fascinating subject of study for marine biologists and aquarists alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Orange Anemone, Diadumene cincta, is a relatively small sea anemone, typically reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters in diameter. Its body is cylindrical in shape, with a central oral disc surrounded by numerous tentacles. These tentacles are typically arranged in multiple whorls and are covered in stinging nematocysts, which the anemone uses to capture prey and defend itself against predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Orange Anemone, Diadumene cincta, exhibits a remarkable adaptability to a variety of habitats, making it a widespread species. It can be found in brackish water, coastal waters, and even intertidal zones. This anemone thrives in both the tidal zone and the subtidal zone, often colonizing soft grounds, mudflats, and tide pools/rock pools. The species’ occurrence extends to deeper waters as well, inhabiting the neritic zone, which spans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at around 200 meters depth. This adaptability has contributed to its success in a range of marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The Orange Anemone, Diadumene cincta, belongs to a family of sea anemones known as the Diadumenidae. This family falls under the order Actiniaria, which encompasses a wide diversity of sea anemones. The order Actiniaria, in turn, belongs to the class Hexacorallia, a group of marine invertebrates characterized by their radial symmetry and six or multiple of six tentacles.
Feeding
The Orange Anemone, Diadumene cincta, is a carnivorous predator that relies on its stinging tentacles to capture prey. Its diet consists primarily of zooplankton, including brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, copepods, cyclops, Daphnia salina, and fish larvae. The anemone also feeds on a variety of invertebrates, such as Mysis. It uses its tentacles to paralyze and bring prey to its mouth, where it is ingested and digested.
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