Biphasic feeding response in a sea anemone: control by asparagine and glutathione

Two phases of the feeding response in the sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima are controlled by different chemical activators. Asparagine controls the contraction and bending of tentacles which bring food to the mouth; reduced glutathione controls ingestion of food once it has contacted the mouth. A complete feeding response occurs only when both chemical activators are present.