Typically found in rocky substrates and tide pools.
Distribution
Found along the coasts of the North Atlantic.
Conservation status
Least Concern
Edibility
Not used as food; not considered edible. Do not collect or handle it.
Danger level
Caution
Usual observation depth
5–30 m
Behaviour
Sessile and generally solitary, but often forming dense aggregations by asexual budding. Its tentacles extend to feed and retract when disturbed.
Observation zones
Rocky reef, vertical wall, overhang, crevice, cave and shaded surfaces of wrecks.
Diet
Suspension-feeding predator capturing zooplankton and small drifting invertebrates with its stinging tentacles.
Reproduction
Oviparous
Identification marks
Small relative of anemones, button-shaped, with a broad oral disc and numerous short tentacles ending in a swelling. The coloration is highly variable, often green, orange, pink, red, purple or white; the tentacle tips are often contrasting.
Similar species
May be confused with other Corynactis species or small sea anemones. Corynactis viridis is distinguished by its compact, button-like form and short tentacles, distinctly swollen at their tips; color alone is not reliable.
Approach rules
Observe without touching. Keep fins and equipment at a distance from the colony, avoid direct flash at very close range, and never feed, collect, or move individuals.
Protection
No specific international protection classification is known. Avoid collection and physical damage; reef-specific or marine protected area rules may apply locally.
