Common name: strawberry corallimorpharian

General information

The Strawberry Anemone, Corynactis californica, is a species of corallimorph that resembles a small sea anemone. It is known for its vibrant pink to red coloration with a distinctive pattern of white-tipped tentacles, which gives it a striking resemblance to a strawberry, hence the name. This species is endemic to the Pacific coast of North America, from Oregon to Baja California. It is often found in dense aggregations, creating a beautiful and colorful display on the rocky substrates where it resides.

Care

Corynactis californica is a hardy species that can be a captivating addition to a reef aquarium. They require moderate to high lighting and moderate water flow to thrive. It's important to provide them with a stable environment, as they can be sensitive to rapid changes in water parameters. They are not aggressive and can be placed near other non-aggressive corals or invertebrates. Feeding is not usually necessary as they can absorb nutrients from the water, but they can benefit from occasional feedings of plankton or finely minced seafood.

Reproduction

Strawberry Anemones reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction is common in the aquarium setting, where they can rapidly spread by pedal laceration, forming new clones from fragments of their base. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, but this is less commonly observed in home aquariums.

Symbiosis

While Corynactis californica does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships with fish as some anemones do, they are often found living in close association with various invertebrates, including brittle stars and certain types of mollusks. These relationships are not as well-studied but are believed to be commensal, where the invertebrates benefit from the protection of the anemone's stinging cells without harming the anemone.

Habitat

In the wild, Strawberry Anemones are typically found in the intertidal to subtidal zones, often in areas with strong surge and wave action. They attach themselves to hard substrates such as rocks, pier pilings, and shell fragments. Their ability to form dense aggregations provides a unique and important microhabitat for various marine organisms.