Stichodactyla
Stichodactyla is a genus of sea anemones, commonly known as carpet anemones. These anemones are characterized by their flattened, disc-shaped body and numerous tentacles. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms.
Characteristics
Stichodactyla anemones possess several distinctive characteristics:
- Flattened body: They have a broad, flattened oral disc with a central mouth surrounded by numerous tentacles.
- Numerous tentacles: The tentacles are typically long and slender, and can be arranged in multiple rows. The number of tentacles varies between species.
- Color variation: Stichodactyla species exhibit a wide range of colors, including brown, green, orange, pink, and purple.
- Symbiotic relationships: Some species of Stichodactyla anemones form symbiotic relationships with clownfish, providing shelter and protection from predators in exchange for food and waste removal.
Environment
Stichodactyla anemones prefer shallow, tropical and subtropical waters. They are often found in coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms, where they can attach themselves to hard substrates. Some species may burrow into the sand or sediment.
References
For further information on Stichodactyla, refer to the following websites: