Southern Ocean Glass Sponge [Rossella racovitzae]
Description
Rossella racovitzae is a type of glass sponge that is found in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. Like its cousin, R. antarctica, this species is known for its high silica content and its unique, glass-like structure. It also feeds by filtering microscopic particles from the water and is found in deep, cold waters. It is unique in its greater size and more complex structure.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Lyssacinosida
Lyssacinosida
|
| Family |
Rossellidae
Rossellidae
|
| Genus |
Rossella
Rossella
|