Thorny Tube Sponge [Clathria aculeata]
Description
The Thorny Tube Sponge is a marine sponge species native to the Caribbean Sea. It is characterized by its tube-like structures that protrude from its base, which are often covered in small, thorn-like spicules. It is found on rocky substrates and coral reefs, typically in shallow, clear waters. As a filter feeder, it feeds on bacteria and microscopic plankton.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Demospongiae
Demospongiae
|
| Order |
Poecilosclerida
Poecilosclerida
|
| Family |
Esperiopsidae
Esperiopsidae
|
| Genus |
Clathria
Clathria
|