Chromosomes of the Sea Anemone Haliplanella Luciae (=H. Lineata) (Coelenterata: Actiniaria)

Chromosomes of Haliplanella luciae (=H. lineata) (Verrill) were studied by a simple method that involved examination of Giemsa-stained preparations. The preparations were made from early embryos after fertilization in the laboratory. This is the first report of chromosome number for the acontiate sea anemones. A modal diploid number of 32 chromosomes was observed in metaphase plates. The method reported here is applicable to studies of chromosomes of other Actiniaria in which external fertilization occurs, with mature gametes being released from individuals of both sexes.