Metridium farcimen

(Brandt, 1835)

Vernacular names

English : Giant plumose anemone
French : Anémone plumeuse géante

Classification

Class : Anthozoa
Order : Actiniaria
Family : Metridiidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification

One of the tallest sea-anemones, reaching heights of nearly 1 meter when fully extended. Base is generally 10 cm wide. Coloration varies from orange to white. Oral disc is lobed with many tentacles, forming a plumose crown.

Range and habitat

The species occurs in the north-eastern part of Pacific Ocean, from Alaska and Canada to California, south to San Diego. Mostly found on rocky bottoms, near shores, down to 200 meters.

Conservation

IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species can be very common in many parts of its range except from south because of water temperature. Also occurs in polluted waters.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation