About Dofleinia armata Wassilieff, 1908
Dofleinia armata is one of the largest species of anemone found in Australia. This species can reach 20 cm in diameter, with tentacles growing up to 50 cm long. It has a broad base, a smooth column, and a broad, flat oral disc. Its long inner tentacles are at least twice the size of its outer tentacles. The surface of the tentacles bears visible papillae that contain very large nematocysts. The oral disc also has papillae, though these are weaker, and they also contain nematocysts. The tip of each tentacle is somewhat swollen. Tentacles may be cream, brown, or unmarked, and are striped. They have a scale-like surface, and are often seen curling into ball shapes that hide the mouth. A well-developed hydrostatic system allows Dofleinia armata to expand its body and tentacles. Dofleinia armata lives in tropical Australian waters, ranging as far south as Perth, Western Australia. It also occurs in the Philippines and Indonesia. This species inhabits the intertidal zone down to depths of 20 metres, where it lives on sloping, sheltered reefs and in mangroves. It can be found in fine silt or mud.
