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Snakelocks Anemone

Distribution : Mediterranean · Atlantic Ocean

One Italian name for the snakelocks anemone brings mythology and observation together: “capelli di Venere”, “Venus's hair”. The comparison comes from its long, supple tentacles spreading over the rocks like flowing locks. Their green colour is linked in part to microscopic algae living within the animal's tissues. Purple tips, when present, add a contrast that varies between individuals.

Habitat of Snakelocks Anemone Habitat
Rocky habitat
Depth range of Snakelocks Anemone Depth
0-20 m
Biological group of Snakelocks Anemone Group
Ecological role of Snakelocks Anemone Role
Predator

Average size

Ø 10 cm

Precautions

Caution: this animal can sting.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

Long, thin, flexible tentacles form the slender crown of the snakelocks anemone (Anemonia viridis). They are often green with purple tips, though some individuals are paler and have no purple tips.

The tentacles surround the mouth at the centre of the crown. Their slenderness contrasts with the short, thick tentacles of the dahlia anemone, even when the two animals have similar colours.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

Well-lit rock surfaces near the surface are a common habitat of the snakelocks anemone. Attached to its support, it mainly occupies the first few metres, with records to around twenty metres. Its range includes the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

A small fish or crustacean held by the tentacles may be immobilised and brought towards the mouth. Another nutritional supply remains hidden inside the tissues. Symbiotic microalgae use light to produce organic compounds that help nourish the anemone. Capture and exchanges with these partners complement one another but operate through different mechanisms.

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Snakelocks Anemone

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