Isactinia

Common Names

Common names for species within this genus include "carpet anemone," "bubble-tip anemone," and "long-tentacle anemone," depending on the specific species and its characteristics.

Characteristics

Isactinia anemones typically exhibit the following characteristics:

• Column: The body column is typically cylindrical and can be smooth or have a slightly bumpy texture.
• Oral Disc: The oral disc, which surrounds the mouth, is often brightly colored and may have a pattern of radial stripes or spots.
• Tentacles: Tentacles are numerous, slender, and arranged in whorls around the oral disc. They can be short or long, depending on the species.
• Coloration: Isactinia species exhibit a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.
• Size: Most Isactinia species are relatively small, with their column diameters ranging from a few centimeters to a few inches.

Environment

Isactinia anemones are primarily found in shallow coastal waters, often in areas with strong currents. They are commonly associated with coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. These anemones are typically found in the intertidal zone or just below it, where they are exposed to fluctuations in water temperature, salinity, and light levels.

References

For further information on Isactinia, refer to the following reliable sources:

• WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species
• PubMed - NCBI
• ResearchGate