Hidden Anemone

Lebrunia coralligens

Lebrunia coralligens, known as the hidden anemone, is a sea anemone species found in shallow waters of the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Brazil. Typically residing in crevices of coral heads and rocks, this anemone is often only partially visible, with its pseudotentacles extending out. These pseudotentacles are distinct from the more branched pseudotentacles of its close relative, Lebrunia danae, and are equipped with nematocysts, which are concentrated near their tips. The pseudotentacles are usually tan or dark grey, sometimes bluish-green, and may have darker tips. At night, the hidden anemone extends its long feeding tentacles to capture prey. This species has a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, photosynthetic algae that reside within its tissues. The pseudotentacles, which contain a higher concentration of these algae than the true tentacles, spread out during the day to maximize light exposure. The anemone's feeding behavior is influenced by its nutritional state, with well-fed individuals showing less expansion of the pseudotentacles. Lebrunia coralligens breeds in the spring, particularly in May and June in Barbados. During this time, adult anemones release planula larvae, which settle on the seabed and metamorphose into juvenile anemones. These juveniles initially have eight tentacles, with more developing as they grow. While the IUCN has not evaluated this species, divers can encounter it at depths of up to 10 meters, where it is a part of the coral reef ecosystem.