Snakelocks Anemone

Cnidarian

Identification & Biology

• IdentificationA large anemone with long, sinuous, usually bright green tentacles that rarely retract, even when disturbed (hence the common name). The green colour comes from symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living in the tentacle tissue. Tentacle tips are often purple.
• SizeColumn diameter up to 8 cm. Tentacle span up to 20 cm.
• Social HabitSolitary or in small groups. Often found in well-lit positions where its symbiotic algae can photosynthesise. The tentacles remain extended almost permanently.
• HabitatShallow, sunlit rocky surfaces, tide pools, and seagrass. Requires light for its zooxanthellae.
• Depth0 to 15 m. Most common in very shallow, well-lit water.
• Feeds OnSmall fish, shrimps, and other invertebrates captured by the stinging tentacles. Also derives nutrition from its symbiotic algae through photosynthesis.
• DistributionEastern Atlantic from the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea. Common in Maltese shallow waters.
• DescriptionAnemonia viridis is one of the most conspicuous anemones in Malta, its bright green tentacles waving in the current on shallow sunny reefs. The green colour comes from zooxanthellae algae living inside the tentacle cells, providing the anemone with sugars from photosynthesis. The sting can be felt by humans but is mild. The tentacles are eaten in parts of the Mediterranean, fried and served as a local delicacy.