The beadlet anemone (Actinia equina) is a familiar sight on the rocky shores of United Kingdom, often seen at low tide as a dark red, jelly-like blob attached firmly to rocks. When the tide returns, it reveals a ring of short, thick tentacles used to sting and catch small prey such as crabs and shrimp. Beneath its tentacles lies a circle of bright blue beads called acrorhagi, which help it defend its territory from other anemones.
Habitat
rockpools/tidepools on rocky shores
Depth
0-20m
Diet
Young fish eat small copepods and crustacea - As adults they are omnivorous eating members of the Gadidae family including haddock, whiting etc and even juvenile cods.
Length
Max. diameter 8cm
Lifespan
20- 50 yrs
Conservation Status
Not Evaluated (NE)
