The Sea Aemone – Stichodactyla haddoni is a captivating marine invertebrate belonging to the family Stichodactylidae. This captivating anemone is renowned for its vibrant colors and distinctive morphology, captivating both marine enthusiasts and seasoned aquarists.
Description & Characteristics
The Stichodactyla haddoni exhibits a diverse range of colors, often displaying shades of green, brown, and orange. Its body is characterized by numerous tentacles that surround a central mouth, giving it a distinctive appearance. The size of the Stichodactyla haddoni can vary significantly, with some specimens reaching a diameter of up to 12 inches.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sea Aemone – Stichodactyla haddoni is a common inhabitant of tropical and subtropical marine environments. They are primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas with high coral density. This anemone prefers shallow, clear waters, often residing in coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky outcrops. Typically found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of 100 feet, the Stichodactyla haddoni thrives in a range of marine zones, including the neritic and oceanic zones.
Taxonomy
The species Stichodactyla haddoni belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Actiniaria, and Family: Stichodactylidae. This classification reflects its evolutionary lineage and its shared characteristics with other members of the Actiniaria order.
Feeding
The Stichodactyla haddoni is a carnivorous creature that employs a variety of feeding strategies. It utilizes its stinging tentacles to capture prey, including brine shrimps, clam meat, small fishes, mysis, plankton, and smelts. The anemone also harbors a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, single-celled algae that live within its tissues. These algae provide the Stichodactyla haddoni with a supplementary source of nutrition through photosynthesis, further contributing to its vibrant colors.
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