Heteractis magnifica form symbiotic relationships with
many sea-dwellers. These organisms include shrimp, crab, algae, and
probably the most commonly known: clownfish. |
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Heteractis magnifica are one of ten species of anemones
to host anemonefish, most coming from the genus Amphiprion. Both
organisms benefit from this relationship, so it is also referred to as
mutualism. The clownfish will gain by using the anemone for protection,
such as hiding within its stinging tentacles and will also lay its eggs beneath
the oral disc overhang for addition security. In turn, the clownfish will
help chase any predator from nibbling at the anemone and will provide it with
added nutrients from its own waste. |
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A pair of clownfish living within their
host anemone
Picture by Elizabeth Guck |
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The symbiotic relationship between shrimp and crab and
Heteractis magnifica is limited. Since the shrimp and crab are not
"immune" to the stinging tentacles, they are restricted to scuttling under the
oral disc overhang. Here they forage for small particles of food and clean
the underside of the anemone. |
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Showing the underside of anemone in the
moonlight.
Picture by Gail Soderberg and Andy Guck
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Single-celled species of green algae can also be found living on
the tentacles of Heteractis magnifica. Since the anemone live in
shallow waters, the algae receive high amounts of sunlight. They are also
protected from being eaten by herbivores. In turn, the anemone receive
oxygen and glucose released from the algae through photosynthesis.
Sometimes, this sugar will be the anemone's only source of food. |
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Human beings also interact with Heteractis magnifica.
This species of anemone is one of the most common for home aquariums. They
are usually taken straight from the ocean and sold to distributors.
Although they do survive well in aquaria, the Ritteri Anemone is considered to
be one of the most challenging species of anemone to keep healthy. Even
though it is hard work, people like to own Heteractis magnifica because
clownfish take so easily to them. |
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Home
aquarium with Heteractis magnifica (upper right)
Picture by Elizabeth Guck |