White-spotted rose anemones are found in the north Atlantic Ocean and along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Mexico. They live in cold water in rocky areas along the coastline and in tide pools. They have a column-shaped body with a circular top.
The life of a white-spotted rose anemone
White-spotted rose anemone can grow up to six inches tall and up to eight inches around. They are named for the white spots found on the column that supports their colorful circular top, which can appear red, orange or brown. Their habitat ranges from shallow water to a depth of 50 feet.
White-spotted rose anemones reproduce through external fertilization. Females release eggs into the water, which males then fertilize to produce new white-spotted rose anemones.
White-spotted rose anemones are carnivores that feast on crustaceans, plankton and small fish. Their tentacles contain a stinging venom called nematocysts, which stuns prey. They use their tentacles to trap their food and consume it.
Their predators include sea stars, sea turtles and fish.
White-spotted rose anemone at the zoo
Located in Steller Cove.
