Giant Carpet Anemone

Stichodactyla gigantea

Habitat & Distribution : Seagrass beds and coral rubble, Indo-Pacific Ocean

Diet : Photosynthesis results from zooxanthellae, planktons, small invertebrates and suspended particles

Size: 50 - 80 cm (in diameter)

Lifespan: 3 - 5 years

Description

This anemone has a flattened, mat-like body with short, thin, uniform tentacles covering its oral disc, giving it a carpet-like appearance. Its body column is usually brown or greenish, but sometimes can be a more colorful purple, electric blue and bright green.

Behavior

When submerged, its sticky, stinging tentacles will move continuously, always ready to capture any passing prey or particles.

Reproduction

Can reproduce asexually and sexually. Asexually, the parent splits itself, creating an identical clone (binary fission). Sexually, it engages in broadcast spawning, releasing gametes into the water for external fertilization.

Communication & Perception

Like other anemones, possess simple nerve nets. Can sense chemical cues and physical stimuli. Its tentacles are able to differentiate the non-self, thus preventing it from eating itself (autophagy)

Predator

Other anemones, nudibranchs, some angelfish, triggerfish and big wrasses.

Conservation Status: Not Evaluated (IUCN Red List; 2025)