To collect the sticky anemones, MBARI created a metal dustpan for lifting the animals off the seafloor using the ROV's mechanical arm. The dustpan proved to be a moderate success—the animals they scooped up didn't stick, but they were easily swept away by currents. Someone at MBARI suggested replacing the dustpan with a stainless-steel colander. Surprisingly, it worked. The anemones we collected didn't stick or float away. We've learned other important lessons about pom-pom anemones. For example, rubber gloves are essential when handling these animals to prevent their stinging tentacles from causing painful welts. Pom-pom anemones can also "sunburn" easily if displayed under bright light, so we made sure to filter the light in their exhibit to keep them looking their best.
We've learned other important lessons about 
