Daphne worked extensively on the sea anemone fauna of the Indo-West Pacific and Antarctica, contributing to popular guides about anemone fish and their hosts and describing dozens of new species.

She was a commissioner of the ICZN, vice-chair of the GBIF science committee, and served the US National Science Foundation (NSF)  as a Program Officer, in addition to serving as an editor for multiple journals and in the leadership of multiple scientific societies, including the International Coral Reef Society.

Daphne also served as the editor for Actiniaria and Corallimorpharia for the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS). Her database ‘Hexacorallians of the World’, of Actiniaria (sea anemone)  taxonomy, distribution and linked information  underpins the WoRMS  treatment of these taxa.

She will be remembered for her enthusiasm, work ethic, and high standards.  Those who knew her will remember her boundless energy,  easy smile, and infectious laugh. She is survived by her husband, distinguished coral scientist Dr. Robert Buddemeier.

Written by Meg Daly