Aggregate Anemone

Ever heard the word Aggregate?

    Aggregate means to form a group.

     The actual scientific name for the Aggregate Anemone is Anthopleura elegantissima. Just like the Solitary Green Anemone, in general appearance, the aggregate anemone, rarely exceeds an expanded diameter of 7 cm. It is an abundant inhabitant of the upper parts of the middle intertidal zone, forming a tight (dense) mat that completely covers large areas of rock and pier pilings. This species is especially abundant on steep rock slopes facing the sea. When the tide is out, each separate anemone folds in on itself, forming a flat spheroid. Since the surface of the column is covered with bits of gravel and shell, these colonies look like the rock it's living on. Beach visitors have been dismayed by finding out that they are stepping on colonies of aggregate anemones!

 Now you know a little bit more about the Aggregate Anemones!