Niphatidae Genera [Niphates]
Description
Niphates is a genus of the Niphatidae family, notable for its diverse species that inhabit a variety of marine environments, from shallow reefs to deeper oceanic waters. These sponges possess a distinctive architecture, with an array of colors and shapes, including cylindrical, lobate, or branching forms. Their structure is reinforced by a combination of spongin and siliceous spicules, making them resilient to physical stresses. Niphates species are crucial for their ecosystems, acting as biofilters and habitats for numerous microorganisms and smaller marine animals.
Species

Bubble Sponge [Niphates digitalis]
View Details
Azure Vase Sponge [Niphates recondite]
View DetailsTaxonomy
Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
---|---|
Class |
Demospongiae
Demospongiae
|
Order |
Haplosclerida
Haplosclerida
|
Family |
Great sponges
Niphatidae
|
Statistics
- Species 2