[Coral-List] White anemones- nemo in the white house?

[Michele & Karl]

Listers,

Can someone briefly explain why some anemones associated with anemonefishes
are white instead of the usual yellow or beige (and sometimes colour-tipped)
ones? I've had this question from clients a few times now. The anemones
appear healthy. To date I have not seen them 'change' colour although I am
interested if this can happen as well. I understand that many anemones have
zooxanthellae-like symbionts so I am hoping that 'white' anemones are not
'bleached.' If they are bleaching then are there cases where they bleach but
only turn a pale version of their former selves (like some corals)? If so,
then this might be hard to detect.

Any clarification is appreciated.

Karl

**
Karl Fellenius, Director &
Michele Dricot, Manager

Vaughani Shores Vanuatu
Pangona Estates, Efate
Postal Box 3158
Port Vila
VANUATU

office       +678 29273 (AWARE)
mobileK   +678 73329
mobileM  +678 73326
email       VaughaniShores at vanuatu.com.vu
web         http://www.diveVanuatu.org
**