Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Oulactis
    Species
    muscosa
    Family
    Actiniidae
    Order
    Actiniaria
    Subclass
    Hexacorallia
    Class
    Anthozoa
    Phylum
    Cnidaria
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    10 cm

Introduction

The Oulactis Anemone is one of the most common anemones and can be found in rock pools.

Identification

The Oulactis Anemone is easy to recognise as it has a habit of collecting pieces of gravel and sand and sticking them between its tentacles. This often masks the true colour of the anemone, which usually has a green or grey column with white or dark spots and grey tentacles.


Habitat

Oulactis Anemones are found on intertidal rocky shores.

Distribution

Oulactis Anemones are found from South Australia to southern Queensland.


Distribution data sourced from the Atlas of Living Australia

Feeding and diet

The Oulactis Anemone is specialised to feed on mussels that have been dislodged from their rocks by waves.

Other behaviours and adaptations

Touching the Oulactis Anemone will make it close away its tentacles, which will stick to your fingers. However, you won't feel any of the stinging cells and you can easily pull your finger loose.