K. Riemann-zurneck et Cl. Griffiths, Korsaranthus natalensis (Carlgren, 1938) nov comb. (Cnidaria : Actiniaria)a mobile sea anemone attacking octocorals, S AFR J ZOO, 34(4), 1999, pp. 190-196
In-situ observations and photographs of an unusual and spectacular red and
white striped, mobile anemone, which appears to feed on gorgonians on subli
ttoral habitats on the south and east coasts of South Africa, prompted a cl
oser examination of two preserved specimens. The specimens are identical wi
th Condylactis natalensis Carlgren, 1938, which was described from a single
preserved specimen and has not since been reported. The redescription of t
he species indicates that a new genus, Korsaranthus, is required to accommo
date it within the family Actiniidae. Most significant characteristics of K
. natalensis are the lack of p-mastigophores in its cnidome and the folded,
distal-most part of its actinopharynx, features that compare with members
of order Ptychodactiaria, which are predators of octocorals, too.