How big is the Spiny sponge?

Spiny sponge (Sarcotragus spinosulus) reaches 10–60 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Spiny sponge?

Spiny sponge is found between 5–60 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Spiny sponge?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Spiny sponge?

Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Spiny sponge (Sarcotragus spinosulus)

Key facts

Scientific name: Sarcotragus spinosulus
Common name: Spiny sponge
Category: Sponges
Family: Irciniidae
Genus: Sarcotragus
Size: 10–60 cm
Depth: 5–60 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: rocky, reef
Behaviours: sessile, filter-feeder
Ocean zones: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean

Description

Sarcotragus spinosulus is a large massive sponge, black to dark brown-purple, reaching 60 cm, with a characteristic surface bristled with closely-spaced conules that give it a rough look. Lives attached to Mediterranean coralligenous walls and in dimly-lit caves between 5 and 60 m. A major filter feeder actively contributing to water filtration in coralligenous ecosystems.

Photo of Spiny sponge

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Spiny sponge?: Spiny sponge (Sarcotragus spinosulus) reaches 10–60 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Spiny sponge?: Spiny sponge is found between 5–60 m deep.
Is the Spiny sponge dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Spiny sponge?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Spiny sponge?: Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Other species in the family Irciniidae

Ircinia variabilis - Fig sponge

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 165086)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2239000)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia