Species · GBIF taxon 2256826
Aggregating Anemone
Anthopleura elegantissimaAlso known as Clonal Anemone, Elegant Anemone, Pink-tipped Anemone
Aggregating anemones carpet rocky Pacific shorelines in dense, genetically identical colonies created through self-cloning. During low tide, they contract into squishy, sand-covered lumps to prevent drying out, opening into vibrant green and pink discs when the water returns. Specialized warrior tentacles along the colony borders actively sting and repel neighboring rival clones to defend their territory.
IntertidalClonalSymbiotic
- diet
- Carnivorous (small fish, crabs, and zooplankton)
- family
- Actiniidae
- threats
- Ocean acidification, warming sea temperatures, and coastal pollution
- life Span
- Decades (potentially immortal through cloning)
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Intertidal colonies are highly vulnerable to trampling by tidepoolers and coastal pollution.
Step only on bare rock and avoid stepping directly on the colonies, which can crush them.- Spot the battle lines: Look for the distinct bare strips of rock separating genetically different colonies.
- Check for camouflage: Notice how they cover themselves with bits of shell and sand to reflect sunlight.