Hardball sponges [Petrosiidae]

Description

Petrosiidae, known as hardball sponges, are a family within the order Haplosclerida characterized by their dense and hard skeletal structure, which feels stone-like to the touch. These sponges are often spherical or lobate in shape and can be found in a range of marine environments, from shallow waters to deeper oceanic zones. The hardball sponges have a unique skeletal composition made primarily of silica, which contributes to their rigid texture. They are important components of their ecosystems, offering habitats for various marine species and participating in the silica cycle of marine environments.

Genera

Taxonomy