SADDLE - CARPET ANEMONE / Stichodactyla haddoni

This tropical carpet anemone was firstly spotted at Vaucluse Bay, Sydney Harbour in June 2011 when sea temperature was barely 16 degrees Celsius! Revisited six month later, the anemone looked healthy and nicely green. Its mysterious appearance at this unusual location could be a subject of wild speculations, but aquarium release (illegal and irresponsible practice) might be the most likely scenario.

Saddle-Carpet Anemone, Stichodactyla haddoni, Vaucluse Bay, Sydney Harbour

Saddle-Carpet Anemone, Stichodactyla haddoni, Vaucluse Bay, Sydney Harbour

Saddle-Carpet Anemone, Stichodactyla haddoni, Vaucluse Bay, Sydney Harbour