Cloak Anemone

Calliactis palliata

The Cloak anemone, known scientifically as Calliactis palliata, is a sessile marine species found in the temperate waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean, including the North Sea. It typically inhabits infra- and circalittoral zones, as well as deeper bathyal areas, often settling in fine sand to silt sediment. Diving encounters with the Cloak anemone can occur at various depths, with 62% of recorded observations being shallower than 40 meters and 90% shallower than about 90 meters. Reproduction involves the release of mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The life cycle begins with a planktonic planula larva, which undergoes metamorphosis before settling. The IUCN Red List and CITES have not evaluated the conservation status of this species, and it poses no known threat to humans.