
The pink-spotted sea anemone (Aiptasiogeton eruptaurantia) is a small anemone native to the southeast coast of the U.S. and the Caribbean, with a typical northern distribution limit of Virginia. However, this species has been observed in in Rhode Island in 2011 and New York in 2022. This species is what researchers term a neo-native. Neo-natives are species that are expanding their normal range in response to climate change.
Description
How to identify pink-spotted sea anemone:
- White anemone with pink spots
- 2.5 cm tall and 0.5 cm in diameter
Habitat and Distribution
The pink-spotted sea anemone is native to the southeast coast of the U.S. and the Caribbean, with a typical northern distribution limit of Virginia. However, this species has been observed in in Rhode Island and New York. In New York, it has been reported in Hampton Bays, Freeport, and in Jamaica Bay. The species is subtidal. In addition to natural substrates, the species is also present among fouling communities on docks and marinas.
Impacts

The species is a recent introduction to New York, and its impacts are currently unknown.
Spread
It is likely that the pink spotted sea anemone is expanding its range in response to climate change.
How You Can Help
- Clean, drain, and dry your watercraft and equipment thoroughly before visiting other waterbodies.
- Inspect and remove debris and mud from boats, trailers, and equipment.
- Dispose of all debris and bait in trash cans or at disposal stations.
- Drain all water-holding compartments including live wells, bait wells, and bilge areas. If possible, visit a decontamination station and disinfect compartments with hot water (140°F) for at least 30 seconds.
- Dry boats, trailers, and all equipment before use in another water body. A minimum of 5–7 days of drying time in dry, warm conditions is recommended.
- Do not dump aquarium contents in any waterbodies, drainage ditches, or sewers.
- Use certified bait that is non-invasive and disease free.
- Learn how to identify pink-spotted sea anemones and report any encounters.
- If you think you have found Pink-spotted sea anemone:
- DO NOT RELEASE IT ALIVE.
- Take several photos of it from different angles and dispose of the specimen
- Email the photos, noting where it was caught (coordinates preferred), to [email protected], OR
- Submit a report through iMapInvasives
- If you think you have found Pink-spotted sea anemone:
Additional Resources
- Invasive Marine Species Found in Point Judith Marina – article that reports on the observation of the pink-spotted sea anemone in Rhode Island