Sea Anemones
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Sea Anemones are related to jellyfish, sharing similar feeding habits. Their tenacles contain a toxin that can paralyze small fish and other creatures that come into contact with it.
The picture of the anemone at the top shows the tenacles on the sides of the creature with a circular mouth part in the center (there is a small stick in the mouth). Once the anemone captures prey it moves it to its mouth.
Sea anemone habitat varies. Many species around the world live along the rocks in coastal tide pools. When the tide goes out it is often easy to walk around the area in search of them.
Look but don't touch should be your guide if you meet up with them. Many species have stings that produce ill effects on humans. Without touching them, you can still check to see the material they attach themselves to. It could be a rock, or a piece of wood, or even a crab shell.
They come in a variety of colors and sizes.
© 2007. Patricia A. Michaels