WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • SEPTEMBER 2024 53 anemones expurgated using surgical blades exhibited delayed development, taking four months to reach completion. Similarly, the same experiment was trialed with Entacmaea quadricolor, adopting the described protocols. Though the development period was almost the same, the complete development of E. quadricolor was observed 10-12 days earlier than in R. magnifica. This may due to their sizes, as E. quadricolor is smaller than R. magnifica. Although this study served as a preliminary investigation, it provides valuable insights into the potential of asexual propagation as a viable method for meeting the diverse demands of anemones in the aquarium trade within a relatively short timeframe and thus, reducing pressure on natural resources. Moreover, the findings highlight the benefits of captive production. Propagated anemones are known to exhibit improved health and adaptability compared to their wildcaught counterparts. By reducing the risk of introducing diseases or parasites, captive-raised animals contribute significantly to the overall sustainability of the ornamental trade. It should be noted that sea anemones are an integral component in clown fish and some other marine aquaria, due to natural symbiotic relationships. At present, the worldwide demand is met through wild collections from fragile coral reef areas. In conclusion, asexual reproduction of sea anemones holds immense potential for bridging the gap between ornamental trade and conservation. By promoting the captive propagation of these fascinating creatures, we can alleviate the pressure on wild populations, while meeting the demands of hobbyists sustainably. Through collaboration between researchers, aquarists, and FIGURE 3. A. Bifurcated R. magnifica in captivity; B. Bifurcated E. quadricolor in captivity with clownfish. A B conservationists, we can ensure the continued enjoyment of sea anemones in aquaria, while safeguarding their future in the world’s oceans. Acknowledgments The first and second authors are thankful to the Director, ICAR - National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) for encouragements. The Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India is acknowledged for the funding support and we also extend thanks to the Department of Fisheries, Administration of Lakshadweep for the local logical support. Notes Sheena Jose and T. T. Ajith Kumar, ICAR - National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow - 226002, Uttar Pradesh, India; and Kuldeep K. Lal*, ICAR - Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai - 600028, Tamil Nadu, India. * Corresponding author: kuldeepklal@gmail.com References Shick J.M., A functional biology of sea anemones. In: Calow P., editor. Functional biology series. London, New York, Tokyo, Melbourne, Madras: Chapman & Hall. 1991. Marudhupandi, T., Bharathi, S., Kumar, T.A. and Lal, K.K. 2023. Binary Fission in Heteractis magnifica: Documentation in Captivity. Current Science, 124, 533-533. In conclusion, asexual reproduction of sea anemones holds immense potential for bridging the gap between ornamental trade and conservation. By promoting the captive propagation of these fascinating creatures, we can alleviate the pressure on wild populations, while meeting the demands of hobbyists sustainably. Through collaboration between researchers, aquarists, and conservationists, we can ensure the continued enjoyment of sea anemones in aquaria, while safeguarding their future in the world's oceans.
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