Halcampidae
Halcampidae is a family of sea anemones belonging to the order Actiniaria. They are commonly referred to as “halcampid sea anemones” and are characterized by their slender, elongated bodies and lack of acontia, which are stinging threads used by other anemones to capture prey. Halcampid sea anemones are typically found in shallow coastal waters, often attached to rocks, shells, or other hard substrates.
Characteristics
Halcampid sea anemones exhibit a range of distinctive characteristics, including:
- Slender, elongated body shape
- Absence of acontia
- Presence of a single siphonoglyph, a groove in the pharynx that facilitates water circulation
- Typically small in size, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in diameter
- Varied coloration, with species exhibiting shades of brown, green, orange, and pink
Environments
Halcampid sea anemones are primarily found in coastal waters, often inhabiting shallow reefs, tide pools, and rocky shores. They prefer environments with moderate water currents and ample sunlight. They are typically found attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, or even seaweeds.
References
For further information about Halcampidae, consult the following reliable sources: