Striped Anemone

Anthothoe chilensis

The striped anemone, Anthothoe chilensis, is a small sea anemone reaching about 2 cm in diameter. It is characterized by its vertical stripes, which can be pink, green, or brown, though some individuals may appear pale. This species is found in the waters off Chile, Brazil, and Argentina in South America, as well as around St. Helena and along the southern African coast from Luderitz to Richards Bay. It inhabits rocky and biogenic substrates, often residing in crevices or under overhangs, and is also found in kelp beds of Macrocystis pyrifera and Lessonia trabeculata. The striped anemone is typically found from the intertidal zone down to depths of 60 meters, although most records are from shallower than 40 meters. This anemone has a unique defense mechanism, expelling sticky threads called acontia through pores in its body wall when threatened, which can irritate sensitive skin. It maintains a symbiotic relationship with bacteria that perform photosynthesis, supplementing its nutritional intake. Predators of the striped anemone include the nudibranch Anteaeolidiella cacaotica. Reproduction in Anthothoe chilensis involves the release of mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, which eventually undergoes metamorphosis and settles on the substrate. The conservation status of this species has not been evaluated by the IUCN.