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Frilly anemones Phymanthus sp.* Family Phymantidae updated Oct 08 Where seen? These sea anemones with many fine 'branches' on their tentacles are often seen on many of our shores. Among coral rubble, usually with the body column wedged in crevices. Features: Diameter with tentacles to 8-12cm. Tentacles about 3-5cm long with elaborate 'branches'. Only one side of the tentacle appears to bear the 'branches'. The anemones come in a wide variety of colours and their branched tentacles may have different patterns. Also sometimes encountered are branched sea anemones with tentacles that are generally smooth with only slight bumps. The body column is pale becoming darker near the top and has longitudinal rows of white verrucae. The anemone can tuck its tentacles into its body column. Sometimes mistaken for other feathery animals. Here's more on how to tell apart feathery animals on our shores. Status and threats: Like other creatures of the intertidal zone, sea anemones are affected by human activities such as reclamation and pollution. Trampling by careless visitors, and over-collection by hobbyists also have an impact on local populations.

Pulau Sekudu, Dec 03 Pulau Semakau, Apr 08

One with a bright orange mouth. Sisters Island, Jun 09

Spitting out indigestibles? Sisters Island, Jun 07

Six-point frilly anemone	Banded frilly anemone	Plain frilly anemone
Six of the tentacles usually of a different colour.	Tentacles with bands.	Tentacles plain sometimes the 'branches' are outlined in white.
Smooth frilly anemone	Striped frilly anemone
Tentacles smooth, but with small branches visible.	Mouth with fine white lines radiating from the centre. Tentacles with violet tips.

*Species are difficult to positively identify without close examination.
On this website, they are grouped by external features for convenience of display