How big is the Fig sponge?

Fig sponge (Ircinia variabilis) reaches 10–40 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Fig sponge?

Fig sponge is found between 2–50 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Fig sponge?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Fig sponge?

Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Fig sponge (Ircinia variabilis)

Key facts

Scientific name: Ircinia variabilis
Common name: Fig sponge
Category: Sponges
Family: Irciniidae
Genus: Ircinia
Size: 10–40 cm
Depth: 2–50 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: rocky-reef
Behaviours: benthic, solitary
Ocean zones: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean

Description

Ircinia variabilis reaches 40 cm. Mediterranean and East Atlantic sponge (Irciniidae) with massive body gray-black to brown-black, variable shape from globular fig to flattened cushion (hence variabilis), surface with small conical protrusions, small scattered oscula, spongin skeleton without siliceous spicules. Lives from 2 to 50 m on rocky reefs. Abundant in infralittoral and circalittoral habitats. Discreet dive photo subject but constitutive of Mediterranean rocky landscapes.

Photo of Fig sponge

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Fig sponge?: Fig sponge (Ircinia variabilis) reaches 10–40 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Fig sponge?: Fig sponge is found between 2–50 m deep.
Is the Fig sponge dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Fig sponge?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Fig sponge?: Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Other species in the family Irciniidae

Sarcotragus spinosulus - Spiny sponge

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 132362)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2239075)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia