Giant Beehive Sponge [Pheronematidae calyx]
Description
The Giant Beehive Sponge is a large, barrel-shaped sponge that can reach up to 2 meters in height and 1 meter in diameter. Its surface is covered with large, rounded protuberances that resemble a beehive. This species is often found in deep waters, usually at depths of 500 to 1000 meters. It is a filter feeder, drawing in water through its pores to extract nutrients. The Giant Beehive Sponge is generally a pale pink color, although it can also appear white or cream.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Hexactinosida
Hexactinosida
|
| Family |
Glass Rope Sponges
Hyalonematidae
|
| Genus |
Beehive Sponges
Coscinonema
|