Russian Doll Glass Sponge [Vazella pourtalesi]
Description
The Russian Doll Glass Sponge, scientifically named Vazella pourtalesi, is a unique marine species found primarily off the coast of British Columbia. It is known for its delicate, intricate structure, akin to Russian nesting dolls, which gives it its common name. The sponge has a cylindrical shape with multiple layers of siliceous, funnel-shaped spicules. It resides in the deep sea, typically at depths of 200 to 300 meters, and it attaches to hard substrates. The species plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, providing habitat for various invertebrates and small fish.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Hexactinosida
Hexactinosida
|
| Family |
Russian Doll Glass Sponges
Lanuginellidae
|
| Genus |
Russian Doll Glass Sponge
Lanuginella
|