First record of the sea anemone Diadumene lineata (Verrill, 1869) from the Chilean coast (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Actiniaria)

The orange-striped green sea anemone Diadumene lineata (Verrill 1871) was originally described from Japan but has been recorded as an invasive species from temperate and tropical coasts all over the world, being presumably transported on ship hulls or with seafood shipments. Here, we report the occurrence of this species for the first time from the South East Pacific, specifically on the coast of Coquimbo, northern Chile. Two specimens were spotted in 2012 and approximately 15 individuals were collected and examined in 2014. Most specimens were identified both externally and internally, confirming the cnidome described for the species in several individuals. Generally, the greenish-brown specimens had a pedal disc diameter of up to 7 mm and possessed between 2 and 11 irregularly distributed orange stripes. Since D. lineata is known to proliferate quickly, it is strongly recommended to start monitoring the area for possible outbreaks.