Anastasidae

Anastasidae is a family of marine invertebrates belonging to the phylum Cnidaria, class Anthozoa. Anthozoans are characterized by their polyp form, lacking a medusa stage. The Anastasidae family specifically contains sea anemones, which are typically sessile, predatory animals found in various marine environments worldwide. Sea anemones are known for their cylindrical bodies, with a mouth at the top surrounded by a ring of tentacles. These tentacles are equipped with stinging cells called cnidocytes, used to capture prey and for defense. Anastasidae members exhibit a diversity of sizes, colors, and tentacle arrangements, adapting to different ecological niches. They are often found attached to rocks, coral reefs, or other substrates, where they filter feed or capture small organisms that drift within reach. Reproduction in Anastasidae can occur both asexually through budding or fission, and sexually, with individuals releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. Some species within this family may also engage in symbiotic relationships with other marine organisms.