Fish-eating anemones are found on the Pacific coast from Alaska to southern California. Related to jellyfish and coral species, they have a column-shaped body with a circular top made of short white tentacles.
The life of a fish-eating anemone
Fish-eating anemones can grow eight inches high, and eight to 10 inches around. They can live up to 80 years.
Fish-eating anemones reproduce by spawning eggs in the water. When the eggs are fertilized, they develop into larvae and grow into anemones. They can also reproduce without mating by splitting their bodies in two in a process called binary fission. The split creates two distinct fish-eating anemones.
Fish-eating anemones are carnivores that stun and capture prey with their tentacles, which contain barbed venomous ends. True to their name, they feed on fish as well as shrimp and other invertebrates.
Fish-eating anemones attach to hard surfaces underwater. Unlike most anemones, they can detach themselves rather quickly by inflating themselves. This helps in avoiding threats from predators, which include sea stars and large fish.
Fish-eating anemones at the zoo
Located in Steller Cove.
