Starlet sea anemone  (Nematostella vectensis)

Whilst populations are stable in the US and Canada, UK populations are small, patchy and at risk (4). British coastal habitats are being damaged by pollution, drainage and in-filling. Isolation of coastal pools can lead to isolation of populations and potential inbreeding depression. Coastal defence works are also responsible for the loss of some sea anemone habitat (3).

Saline lagoons are a priority under the EC Habitats Directive, and the starlet sea anemone is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. It has a Species Action Plan that proposes the maintenance of all viable populations at all known sites, as well as surveys to document the entire UK range of the species. It is also suggested that the starlet sea anemone be reintroduced to three sites during 2005 (3).