Explore the diverse world of Cnidarians, a group that includes jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals, found in the waters of Zeeland. Learn about their unique stinging cells, fascinating life cycles, and the critical roles they play in marine ecosystems. Discover the beauty and complexity of these creatures as they thrive in Zeeland’s underwater habitats.
Tube Anemone (Cerianthus membranaceus) – Buiskoraal Taxonomy: The Plumose Anemone belongs to the Actiniidae family. This family includes many types of sea anemones known for their colorful and striking appearances. Species: Metridium senile is recognized for its long, feathery tentacles. They can grow up to 40 cm in height. Habitat: Found in cold waters, particularly…
Tube Anemone (Cerianthus membranaceus) – Buiskoraal Taxonomy: The Tube Anemone belongs to the Cerianthidae family. Its name is derived from its unique tube-like structure where it resides. Species: The species Cerianthus membranaceus is recognized for its long, slender body and beautiful tentacles. Habitat: Tube Anemones are found in sandy and muddy substrates along the coasts…
Beadlet Anemone (Actinia equina) – Zeeanemoon Taxonomy: The Beadlet Anemone belongs to the Actiniidae family. This family includes various anemones with distinctive shapes and colors. Species: The Beadlet Anemone is one of the most common species found along the coasts of Europe. It can reach a height of about 10 cm. Habitat: These anemones are…
Compass Jellyfish (Chrysaora hysoscella) – Kompas Kwal Taxonomy: The Compass Jellyfish belongs to the Pelagiidae family. Its Latin name is Chrysaora hysoscella. Its common name comes from the compass-like markings on its bell. Size: The bell of the Compass Jellyfish can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. It has long tentacles, which can reach…
Barrel Jellyfish (Rhizostoma pulmo) Taxonomy: The Barrel Jellyfish belongs to the Rhizostoma genus. It is a large species of jellyfish found in various ocean habitats. Species: This species can grow up to 90 cm in diameter. Making it one of the largest jellyfish in European waters. Reproduction: Barrel Jellyfish reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm…
Dead Man’s Fingers – Alcyonium digitatum – Dodemansduim Taxonomy: Dead Man’s Fingers belong to the Alcyonacea order. And Alcyoniidae family. They are soft corals found in various marine environments. Species: This species can reach up to 30 cm in height. And 15 cm in diameter. They are characterized by their finger-like projections. Reproduction: They reproduce…
Moon Jellyfish (Aurelia aurita) – Kwal Taxonomy: The Moon Jellyfish belongs to the Aurelia genus, within the Ulmaridae family. This family includes many jellyfish species, known for their gelatinous bodies and distinct shapes. Species: The most common species is Aurelia aurita. They can grow up to 40 cm in diameter, with a translucent, umbrella-shaped bell….
Sea Dahlia – Urticina felina Taxonomy: The Sea Dahlia (Urticina felina) belongs to the class “Anthozoa”. Which is part of the phylum Cnidaria. This phylum also includes corals and sea anemones. The name “Urticina” derives from Latin. Meaning “nettles” or “stinging”. Reflecting the anemone’s stinging cells. Species: Urticina felina is a solitary sea anemone found in the…
