Woolly Glass Sponge [Lanugonychia]

Description

Lanugonychia is another genus within the family Lanuginellidae, distinguished by its 'woolly' appearance, a characteristic attributed to the dense arrangement of its spicules, which are silica-based skeletal elements that provide structural support for the sponge. This genus shares the deep-sea habitat of its relatives, thriving in the cold, nutrient-rich waters where light does not penetrate. Lanugonychia species are known for their unique reproductive strategy among glass sponges, where they release a large number of eggs into the water column, ensuring the widespread distribution of their offspring. Their intricate spicule arrangements not only contribute to their woolly appearance but also serve as a filtration system, capturing tiny particles from the water, which are then consumed as food. This genus is vital for understanding the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of deep-sea sponge communities.

Species

White Glass Sponge [Euplectella speciosa]

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Taxonomy