Antarctic Deep-sea Sponge [Rossella antarctica]
Description
This species is a deep-sea sponge that is found in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. It is known for its high silica content and its unique, glass-like structure. The sponge feeds by filtering microscopic particles from the water. The species is known to exist in cold, deep waters and is often found at depths greater than 1000 meters. It has a cup-shaped body with a stalk that is used to anchor it to the sea floor.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Lyssacinosida
Lyssacinosida
|
| Family |
Rossellidae
Rossellidae
|
| Genus |
Rossella
Rossella
|