The Sand-Rose Anemone, Crusty Red Anemone, or Columbia Sand Anemone, scientifically known as Urticina columbiana, is a captivating and vibrant marine invertebrate found along the Pacific coast of North America. This anemone species is known for its striking appearance and its role within the complex marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Urticina columbiana is characterized by its red-brown to reddish-orange body, often adorned with white or cream-colored markings that resemble sand roses. These markings are quite distinctive and often appear as irregular bands, giving the anemone its common name. The anemone’s body can reach a maximum size of 10 cm in diameter. Its surface is covered in numerous bumps, giving it a somewhat crusty appearance, hence another common name, “Crusty Red Anemone.” The anemone has a single, central mouth surrounded by a ring of tentacles, typically between 60 and 80 in number. These tentacles are lined with stinging cells called nematocysts, used for defense and capturing prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sand-Rose Anemone, Urticina columbiana, displays a wide range in terms of its habitat. It is frequently found in the Intertidal Zone, particularly in areas of the Tidal Zone, where it can tolerate periods of both submersion and exposure. This anemone can also be found in deeper waters, inhabiting the Subtidal, Sublittoral, and Infralittoral zones of the neritic marine environment. It is particularly common in areas with muddy grounds, where it can burrow and anchor itself. This adaptable species can thrive in a variety of depths, ranging from the lower limit of the Intertidal Zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth.
Taxonomy
The species Urticina columbiana belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Actiniaria, and Family: Actiniidae. This classification places it within the larger group of cnidarians, which also includes corals, jellyfish, and sea anemones.
Distribution and Occurrence
The Sand-Rose Anemone, Urticina columbiana, is typically found along the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to California. It is a common inhabitant of the Intertidal Zone and Subtidal Zone, particularly in areas with muddy grounds. This species is a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems, playing an important role in their balance and biodiversity.
Feeding
The Sand-Rose Anemone, Urticina columbiana, is a carnivore. It feeds primarily on a variety of invertebrates, including zoobenthos and zooplankton. It captures its prey using its stinging tentacles, paralyzing them before drawing them into its mouth. Some species of Urticina columbiana also have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, single-celled algae that live within their tissues. These algae provide the anemone with some of its energy through photosynthesis.
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