Phymanthidae

Common Names

Phymanthidae anemones are commonly known as "trumpet anemones" due to their distinctive, trumpet-shaped body form. They are also sometimes referred to as "long-tentacled anemones" because of their numerous, slender tentacles.

Characteristics

Phymanthidae anemones exhibit a number of unique characteristics that distinguish them from other sea anemone families. These include:

• Trumpet-shaped body: The anemones possess a long, cylindrical body that tapers towards the mouth opening, resembling a trumpet. The column is often smooth and devoid of verrucae (warts) or other surface structures.
• Long, slender tentacles: Phymanthidae anemones have numerous, thin, and often very long tentacles that can be arranged in rows around the mouth opening.
• Absence of acontia: Unlike many other sea anemones, Phymanthidae members lack acontia, which are stinging threads that can be ejected from the body wall.
• Pedal disc: They have a well-developed pedal disc (foot) that adheres to the substrate and anchors the anemone to the seafloor.
• Variety of colours: Phymanthidae anemones can be found in a range of colours, including brown, green, yellow, and orange.

Environment

Phymanthidae anemones are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:

• Coral reefs: They are commonly associated with coral reefs and are often found growing on hard substrates, such as rocks, corals, and shells.
• Rocky shores: Some species may inhabit rocky shores, especially in areas that are exposed to strong currents or wave action.
• Seagrass beds: Phymanthidae anemones can also be found in seagrass meadows, where they may use their tentacles to capture small organisms that drift by.

References

For more information about Phymanthidae, refer to the following sources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• ResearchGate: Phymanthidae