Girdle Anemone

Actinia cari

The Girdle Anemone, known scientifically as Actinia cari, is a sea anemone native to the Mediterranean Sea. It is characterized by its brown-green to reddish color, with distinct dark, longitudinal rings on its cylindrical to conical body. This species can grow to about 4-5 centimeters in width and reach a height of up to 8 centimeters. Its ability to fully retract its tentacles distinguishes it from some other anemone species. Girdle Anemones are commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the adjacent Atlantic Ocean. They inhabit rocky environments, attaching themselves to rocks and the undersides of smooth stones. They are typically found in the infralittoral and subtidal zones at depths ranging from the surface to a few meters, with a maximum recorded depth of 20 meters. This species is nocturnal and primarily feeds on small prey, which it captures using its tentacles. Reproduction involves the release of mature gametes into the coelenteron, with the zygote developing into a planktonic planula larva before settling. The IUCN lists the Girdle Anemone as Data Deficient.