Common name: Jewel anemone

General information

The Strawberry Coral, Corynactis viridis, is a species of corallimorph that resembles a small sea anemone. It is often mistaken for a true anemone but is actually more closely related to stony corals. This species is known for its vibrant colors, typically ranging from bright pink to red, with a distinctive green mouth, which makes it a visually appealing addition to any reef aquarium.

Care

Corynactis viridis is a hardy species that can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from moderate to high intensity. They prefer moderate water flow and can reproduce asexually, spreading across the rockwork to form a beautiful, colorful carpet. It's important to ensure they have enough space to grow without encroaching on neighboring corals, as they can be quite aggressive.

Reproduction

This species reproduces both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction occurs through pedal laceration, where new polyps form from fragments of the parent's base. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, leading to external fertilization.

Habitat

Strawberry Corals are found in the Northeast Atlantic, from the coasts of the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea. They inhabit rocky substrates and can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to over 100 meters deep.