We’re traveling under the sea in today’s blog to find out more about the sea anemone! Did you know there are more than one thousand species of sea anemones living in the ocean? Read today’s blog to find out more! Use a waterproof camera to take a picture of a sea anemone the next time you are diving and/or snorkeling and share it with us on our Monterey Boats Facebook page!

An anemone is an unusual sea creature in that it will remain in the same spot until the area is no longer desirable or they are attacked by a predator. During their lifetime they will develop a symbiosis with the clownfish. This relationship provides a food source for the clownfish since they will feed on invertebrates that pose a threat to the sea anemone. In exchange the sea anemone protects the clownfish from potential predators due to its stinging cells. The clownfish is immune from an attack by the sea anemone.

1. Banded Tube Dwelling Sea Anemone

The banded tube dwelling sea anemone is found around Florida, the Bahamas and the Caribbean and are known for burying themselves in coral rubble, sand, and mud. If disturbed they will hide immediately.

2. Beadlet Anemone

To find a beadlet anemone you will have to travel to Western Europe and the British Isles. It’s common to find them just off the coast in various shades of red including scarlet and maroon, as well as green, brown and orange. Younger beadlet anemones will look patterned and are very bright in color.

3. Branching Anemone

The branching anemone is found in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Florida. Their tentacles only come out at night and are brown and gray in color.

4. Sea Anemone and Clownfish

In addition to providing each other with protection the clownfish provides the sea anemone with nutrients via its fecal matter.