Cnibi's Writings

Sea anemones are animals that like flowers, with dozens of brightly colored tentacles that wave about in the water. But the tentacles delivered a deadly poisonous sting- and when an unfortunate fish blunders into them, it’s usually killed and eaten by the anemones. But one fish is an exception to this rule: Clownfish live right among the tentacles without being harmed. Sea anemones and clownfish are partners in a relationship that benefits both animals.

The clownfish cleans away debris both animals. The clownfish cleans away debris from among the anemone’s tentacles. And this debris is often food for the clownfish. In addition, the relationship gives the clownfish protection: Few predators will risk the anemone’s sting the pursue them. How does the clownfish avoid being stung? Before it tries to swim among as anemone’s tentacles, the clownfish will brush lightly against the anemone. It does this repeatedly, quickly swimming away each time. Scientists think that by doing this, the fish builds up immunity to the anemone’s poison.