Species · GBIF taxon 2256644
Snakelocks Anemone
Anemonia viridisAlso known as Opelet Anemone
Snakelocks anemones wave long, snake-like tentacles that cannot fully retract into their bodies, exposing them constantly to the sun. These tentacles host symbiotic algae that provide energy through photosynthesis, giving the anemone its characteristic bright green hue with violet tips. They cling tightly to rocks in shallow, sunlit waters, capturing passing prey with powerful stinging cells.
MarineVenomousSymbiotic
Licensed referenceDiego Delso / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Small fish, crustaceans, and organic particles
- family
- Actiniidae
- threats
- Water pollution, coastal development, and rising sea temperatures
- life Span
- Up to several decades
NE
Tentacles possess stinging cells that can cause painful skin irritation; avoid touching directly.
Possesses powerful stinging cells called nematocysts that inject toxins, causing localized burning, redness, and mild blistering on human skin.
Do not touch or step on them in tide pools; wear protective footwear when wading in shallow rocky areas.- Look for the Glow: Observe them in shallow tide pools where sunlight highlights their bright green bodies and purple-tipped tentacles.
- Avoid Contact: Keep a safe distance to prevent painful stings from their non-retractable tentacles.