Diverosa, sponges

By species

www.diverosa.com

Rokus Groeneveld & Sanne Reijs

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Sponges are simple aquatic multicellular animals. They are often tube like, and the surface is perforated with numerous small pores. Water is drawn into the sponge, leaving the sponge through the larger excurrent opening(s). Oxygen and food are filtered out in the process.
Sponges are very hard to identify. Species come in many forms and often colours, depending factors as depth, current, light, water chemistry, age and location. Conclusive identification is only possible in a laboratory, with a microscope, studying the spicules. Spicules are the structural components of a sponge.

The phylum Porifera, sponges, is divided in four classes. The Demospongiae is the largest. About 90% of all sponges belong to this class. The spicula are made of fibers of the protein spongi. If you have a natural bath sponge, it’s a Demospongiae. The second one are the class Calcarea, the calcareous sponges, that have spicules made of calcium carbonate. The other two classes are Hexactinellida (glass sponges), and the recently recognized Homoscleromorpha (encrusting sponges). There are about 5000 described species, almost all marine. There is only one family of fresh water sponges, the family Spongillidae.

Agelasidae (class Demospongiae)

Agelas citrina

Citron sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

Agelas citrina

Citron sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Red slave

Agelas clathrodes

Orange elephant ear sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Candyland

Agelas clathrodes

Orange elephant ear sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

Agelas conifera

Brown tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Jeff Davis

Agelas conifera

Brown tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

Agelas conifera

(with Parazoanthus puertoricense)

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Candyland

Agelas sventres

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Vista blue

Ancorinidae (class Demospongiae)

Dercitus (Halinastra) luteus

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Rhabdastrella globostellata

Yellow pot sponge

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Pyramids

Rhabdastrella globostellata

Yellow pot sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: City extra

probably Rhabdastrella globostellata

(covered in cyanobacteria)

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Nudi falls (night dive)

Stelletta clavosa

Rolling sponge

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Shark reef

Stelletta clavosa

Rolling sponge

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Bangug check (night dive)

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Aplysinidae (class Demospongiae)

Aplysina crassa

Branching tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Hilma Hooker

Aplysina crassa

Branching tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

Aplysina archeri

Stove-pipe sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Reef scientifico

Aplysina archeri

Stove-pipe sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Aplysina archeri

Stove-pipe sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

maybe Aplysina cauliformis

Row pore rope sponge ?

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

Aplysina cauliformis

Row pore rope sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Hilma Hooker

Aplysina cauliformis

Row pore rope sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Andrea 2

Aplysina fistularis

Yellow tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Bari (night dive)

Aplysina fistularis

Yellow tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

maybe Aplysina fistularis

Yellow tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Angel city

possibly Aplysina insularis

Candle sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Tolo

maybe Aplysina lacunosa

Convoluted barrel sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

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Aplysina sp.

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

Axinellidae (class Demospongiae)

Cymbastela marshae

Cup sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks

Cymbastela marshae

Cup sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

Cymbastela sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Fairlight

Pararhaphoxya sinclairi

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Pararhaphoxya sinclairi

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

maybe Pararhaphoxya sinclairi

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

maybe Pararhaphoxya sinclairi

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Fairlight

family Axinellidae

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador south-east

maybe family Axinellidae

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: San miguel

Callyspongiidae (class Demospongiae)

Callyspongia aerizusa

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Celebes

mayby Callyspongia aerizusa

with Stylissa massa?

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Catamaran

Callyspongia asparagus

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Clifton gardens (night dive)

Callyspongia communis

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Callyspongia communis

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

maybe Callyspongia communis

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Fairy bower

Callyspongia manus

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Callyspongia manus

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Callyspongia manus

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Callyspongia fallax

Smooth tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Red beryl

Callyspongia fallax

Smooth tube sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Red beryl

Callyspongia plicifera

Azure vase sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Tori's reef

Callyspongia plicifera

Azure vase sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Punt vierkant

Callyspongia plicifera

Azure vase sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Sweet dreams

Callyspongia plicifera

(in Madracis sp. maybe M. myriaster)

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Atlantis

Callyspongia samarensis

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Retak Larry

Callyspongia samarensis

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Retak Larry

probably Callyspongia sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Tulamben, Drop off

Callyspongia sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Callyspongia sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Pipeline

Callyspongia sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

Callyspongia sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

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probably family Callyspongiidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

mayby Dactylia varia

Slimy lemon sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Chalinidae (class Demospongiae)

Chalinula nematifera

Coral killing sponge

Ambon, Indonesia 2010
house reef Maluku divers (night dive)

Chalinula nematifera

Coral killing sponge

Lembeh, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Pintu kolaba

Chalinula nematifera

Coral killing sponge

Raja ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Yenbuba jetty

Chalinula nematifera

Coral killing sponge

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Logbon inside

Haliclona (Reiniera) fascigera

Blue-grey tube sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

Haliclona (Reiniera) fascigera

Blue-grey tube sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

Haliclona (Reiniera) fascigera

Pink tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: MDJ

Haliclona (Reiniera) fascigera

Pink tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Emma

mayby Haliclona koremella

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: San miguel

IL4-174 unidentified sponge, maybe Haliclona sp.

mayby Haliclona sp.

Lembeh, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Batu lubang (night dive)

IB2-173 unidentified sponge, maybe Haliclona sp.

mayby Haliclona sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Labuan segala

Haliclona sp.

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Bangug 3

mayby Haliclona sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

Chondropsidae (class Demospongiae)

Chondropsis kirkii

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

maybe Chondropsis sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

maybe Chondropsis sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

maybe Chondropsis sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

maybe Chondropsis sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

Chondropsis sp.

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

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Clionaidae (class Demospongiae)

Cliona caesia

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Cliona varians

Brown variable sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Andrea 2

AWA-035_maybe_Cliona_sp_undetermined_sponge

mayby Cliona sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

AWA-513_maybe_Cliona_sp_undetermined_sponge_2

mayby Cliona sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

AWA-520_maybe_Cliona_sp_undetermined_sponge

mayby Cliona sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Coogee marina, north wall

Cliona sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Cliothosa delitrix

Red boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Windsock

Cliothosa delitrix

Red boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Oil slick leap

Cliothosa delitrix

Red boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Bari (night dive)

Cliothosa delitrix

Red boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Cliff (night dive)

Cliothosa delitrix

Red boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Oil slick

Pione vastifica

Red boring sponge

Marsa alam, Egypt 2012
Dive site: house reef Oasis (night dive)

Pione vastifica

(with maybe Polydorella sp.)

Marsa alam, Egypt 2012
Dive site: house reef Oasis

Spheciospongia inconstans

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Catamaran

Spheciospongia inconstans

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Retak Larry

Spheciospongia papillosa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Spheciospongia papillosa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Spheciospongia papillosa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

mayby Spheciospongia papillosa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Fairlight

mayby Spheciospongia papillosa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Spheciospongia cf. vagabunda

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Malatapay

Spheciospongia vesparium

Loggerhead sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Aquarius

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Spheciospongia sp.

undetermined sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Seraya slope

mayby Spheciospongia sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

Spheciospongia sp.

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Celebes

family Clionaidae

undetermined sponge

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Shark reef

family Clionaidae

undetermined boring sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Five rocks

family Clionaidae

undetermined boring sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Five rocks

AWA-398_maybe_family_Clionidae_undetermined_sponge

mayby family Clionaidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

AWA-637_maybe_family_Clionaidae_undetermined_sponge

mayby family Clionaidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

family Clionaidae

undetermined boring sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

family Clionaidae

undetermined boring sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Celebes

Crambeidae (class Demospongiae)

Monanchora arbuscula

Red encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Windsock (night dive)

Monanchora clathrata

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 3

Monanchora clathrata

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Angel window

Monanchora unguiculata

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Mural

Monanchora unguiculata

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Shark reef

Monanchora unguiculata

Halmahera, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Gemaf coral

Monanchora sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

Monanchora sp.

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Titoi 1

Darwinellidae (class Demospongiae)

mayby Aplysilla sulfurea

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Point peron

FRO-360_undetermined_sponge_maybe_Darwinella_oxeata

mayby Darwinella oxeata

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: San Pedro

mayby Darwinella sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Dendrilla rosea

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Dendrila rosea left

Encrusting rose sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Dendrilla rosea

Encrusting rose sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

ASA-282_undetermined_sponge_maybe_Dendrilla_sp.

mayby Dendrilla sp.

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Port Hughes jetty

family Darwinellidae

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Popoh

Dysideidae (class Demospongiae)

mayby Dysidea etheria

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

mayby Dysidea etheria

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

mayby Dysidea etheria

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

Dysidea frondosa

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Titoi 1

Dysidea frondosa

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 3

probably Dysidea sp.

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Tanjung usi 3

Dysidea sp.

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Mutiara

AWA-538_maybe_family_Dysideidae_undetermined_sponge

mayby family Dysideidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Fremantle, South mole

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Pleraplysilla sp.

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Ligpo cavern

Euryspongia delicatula

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Camp cove

Euryspongia delicatula

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Camp cove

Erylinae (class Demospongiae)

Melophlus sarasinorum

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Titoi 2

Melophlus sarasinorum

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 2 (night dive)

Melophlus sarasinorum

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Little beach

Melophlus sarasinorum

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 3

Melophlus sarasinorum

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Pulau makawide

Halichondriidae (class Demospongiae)

Ciocalypta penicillus?

Brush sponge

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Masaplod norte

IAM-182 unidentified sponge, Ciocalypta sp.

mayby Ciocalypta penicillus

Brush sponge

Ambon, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Riang

mayby Ciocalypta penicillus

Brush sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2009
Dive site: Tulamben, Drop off

Ciocalypta penicillus

Cored chimney sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Pipeline

probably Ciocalypta polymastia

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

Ciocalypta sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Seraya

Ciocalypta sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Seraya (night dive)

Ciocalypta sp.

Sprouting sand sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

Ciocalypta sp.

Sprouting sand sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

maybe Ciocalypta sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

probably Ciocalypta sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Coogee marina, north wall

probably Ciocalypta sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

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Hemiasterellidae (class Demospongiae)

Liosina granularis

Lumpy tube sponge

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Shark reef

Liosina granularis

on sponge crab

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
house reef Weda resort (night dive)

Liosina granularis

Lumpy tube sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Nilog

Liosina granularis

Lumpy tube sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Ligpo cavern

Liosina granularis

Lumpy tube sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
house reef Mimpi Indah

Heteroxyidae (class Demospongiae)

Myrmekioderma granulatum

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Banlot (night dive)

Myrmekioderma granulatum

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: White house

Myrmekioderma granulatum

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Pygmy house

Myrmekioderma granulatum

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Anchor bay

Myrmekioderma granulatum

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Logbon, Sanctuary

Myrmekioderma granulatum?

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: The passage

mayby Myrmekioderma gyroderma

Convoluted orange sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Salt pier (night dive)

mayby Myrmekioderma sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal (night dive)

mayby Myrmekioderma sp.

Western Australia 2020
Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

FN2-258_maybe_family_Heteroxyidae_undetermined_sponge

mayby family Heteroxyidae

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: San miguel

Hymedesmiidae (class Demospongiae)

Hemimycale arabica

Arabian crust sponge

Marsa alam, Egypt 2012
Dive site: house reef Oasis (night dive)

Phorbas amaranthus

(with maybe Madracis decactis)

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Jeff Davis

mayby family Hymedesmiidae

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Mural

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Irciniidae (class Demospongiae)

maybe Ircinia felix

Stinker sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Ircinia strobilina

Black ball sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Atlantis

Ircinia strobilina

Black ball sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Atlantis

probably Ircinia sp.

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Masaplod norte

Microcionidae (class Demospongiae)

maybe Clathria cactiformis

Orange palm sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

maybe Clathria cactiformis

Orange palm sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

maybe Clathria cactiformis

Orange palm sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Clathria curacaoensis

Orange-veined encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Salt pier (night dive)

Clathria (Microciona) mima

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: house reef Sorido

Clathria (Microciona) sp.

on maybe Spondylus butleri

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
house reef Magic Island (night dive)

FMI-081 sponge, unidentified Clathria sp.

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Kasai wall

IB2-164 unidentified sponge, Clathria sp.

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Labuan segala

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Hilma Hooker

IRA-101 undetermined sponge, Clathria sp.

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Yenbuba jetty

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: house reef Magic Oceans

mayby Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Pyramids

Clathria sp.

undetermined encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Oil slick

Echinochalina intermedia

(covering Vermetidae)

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Mutiara

IRA-320 undetermined sponge, maybe Echinochalina sp.

mayby Echinochalina sp.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Yenbuba jetty

Echinoclathria leporina

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Echinoclathria leporina

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

Holopsamma arborea

Brown honeycomb sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

Holopsamma laminaefavosa

Cream honeycomb sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

Holopsamma laminaefavosa

Cream honeycomb sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Holopsamma laminaefavosa

Cream honeycomb sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Holopsamma laminaefavosa

Cream honeycomb sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

Holopsamma laminaefavosa

Cream honeycomb sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

probably family Microcionidae

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: MDJ

Mycalidae (class Demospongiae)

maybe Arenochalina mirabilis

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty (night dive)

maybe Arenochalina mirabilis

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty (night dive)

Mycale (Carmia) fistulifera

Polyp sponge

Wadi Lahami, Egypt 2003
Dive site: Shaab rour north

FRO-297_Nausithoe_punctata_Tubular_stage_of_jellyfish_on_sponge

Mycale (Carmia) fistulifera

Polyp sponge

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Bangug 3

Mycale (Kerasemna) humilis

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Mutiara

Niphatidae (class Demospongiae)

Amphimedon queenslandica

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Kubu, Batu Indah

Amphimedon queenslandica

Negros, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Apo Island, Lagahan

Amphimedon queenslandica

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Mural

Amphimedon queenslandica

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Ligpo cavern

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Gelliodes gracilis

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 1 (night dive)

maybe Gelliodes sp.

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Titoi 2

Niphates olemda

Blue tube sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador south-east

Niphates olemda

Blue tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Little beach

Niphates olemda

Blue tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Mutiara

probably Niphates olemda

small Blue tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Marigani

Niphates erecta

Lavender rope sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Karpata

Niphates erecta

Lavender rope sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Karpata

family Niphatidae

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Seraya

Petrosiidae (class Demospongiae)

Xestospongia testudinaria

Barrel sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador east

Xestospongia testudinaria

Barrel sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador (south)

Xestospongia testudinaria

Barrel sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Bubbles

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Polymastiidae (class Demospongiae)

Polymastia echinus

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

mayby Polymastia sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Woodman point

Polymastia sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

family Polymastiidae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Phloeodictyidae (class Demospongiae)

Oceanapia sagittaria

Pink puffball ponge

Ambon, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Laha III (night dive)

Oceanapia sagittaria

Pink puffball sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Tulamben, USAT Liberty

Oceanapia sagittaria

Pink puffball sponge

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: Sand slope

Oceanapia sp.

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Emma

Siphonodictyon coralliphagum

Yellow boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Atlantis

Siphonodictyon coralliphagum

Yellow boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Red slave

Siphonodictyon coralliphagum

Yellow boring sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Red slave

mayby family Phloeodictyidae

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: (next to) Ducomi pier

mayby family Phloeodictyidae

Negros, Philippines 2019
Dive site: Ginama an

family Phloeodictyidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

family Phloeodictyidae

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

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Raspailiidae (class Demospongiae)

Echinodictyum clathrioides

Grey fan sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Fremantle, South mole

Echinodictyum clathrioides

Grey fan sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Fremantle, South mole

Ectyoplasia ferox

Brown encrusting octopus sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Ectyoplasia ferox

Brown encrusting octopus sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Jeff Davis

mayby Ectyoplasia ferox

Brown encrusting octopus sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Andrea 2

Scopalinidae (class Demospongiae)

Scopalina australiensis

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Scopalina australiensis

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Scopalina ruetzleri

Orange lumpy encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Candyland

Scopalina ruetzleri

Orange lumpy encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Jeff Davis

Scopalina ruetzleri

Orange lumpy encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Scopalina ruetzleri

Orange lumpy encrusting sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Nukove

Scopalina ruetzleri

Orange lumpy encrusting sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Bulo

Stylissa carteri

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: City extra

mayby Stylissa carteri

Marsa alam, Egypt 2012
Dive site: house reef Oasis (night dive)

mayby Stylissa massa

in Callyspongia_aerizusa?

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Catamaran

mayby Stylissa massa

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Pipeline (night dive)

Svenzea flava

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Kalebas (night dive)

Svenzea zeai

Dark volcano sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: Reef scientifico (night dive)

Suberitidae (class Demospongiae)

Terpios gelatinosus

with Doriopsis pecten

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Matu

family Suberitidae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point (night dive)

family Suberitidae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

family Suberitidae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

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Tethyidae (class Demospongiae)

possibly Tethya bergquistae

Southern golfball sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

mayby Tethya ingalli

Ingall's golfball sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

mayby Tethya ingalli

Ingall's golfball sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

mayby Tethya ingalli

Ingall's golfball sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

mayby Tethya ingalli

Ingall's golfball sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty (night dive)

Tethya sp.

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Blairgowrie pier

Tethya sp.

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Blairgowrie pier

Tethya sp.

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Tethya sp.

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks

Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

probably Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

probably Tethya sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty

Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Camp cove

Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Camp cove

probably Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Clifton gardens (night dive)

probably Tethya sp.

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

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Tetillidae (class Demospongiae)

Tetilla dactyloidea

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Parman's choice

Tetilla dactyloidea

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Parman's choice

Tetilla dactyloidea

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Parman's choice

MSI-44_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Sipadan, Malaysia 2005
Dive site: Midreef

FMI-252_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador east

IB2-174_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Labuan segala

FM2-160_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

IRA-104_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Mios kon

FAN-398_maybe_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Golf_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange of Golf ball sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Dive and trek

FMO-164_Cinachyrella_australiensis_Orange_ball_sponge

mayby Cinachyrella australiensis

Orange or Golf ball sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Birhen point

Cinachyrella sp.

undetermined white golf ball sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Pygmy house

Cinachyrella sp.

undetermined ball sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Labuan segala

Craniella abracadabra

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

Paratetilla arcifera

Negros, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Apo island (Chapel)

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Theonellidae (class Demospongiae)

probably Theonella cylindrica

Brown tube sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Bulo

Theonella swinhoei

Brown tube sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador east

Theonella swinhoei

Brown tube sponge

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Pescador

Thorectidae (class Demospongiae)

Polyfibrospongia contorta

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: house reef Magic Oceans

ANS-223_maybe_subfamily_Phyllospongiinae

mayby subfamily Phyllospongiinae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

mayby Thorectidae sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

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Other Demospongiae

Acarnus erithacus

Red volcano sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Bulo

Crella incrustans

on Chlamys hastata (Pacific spear scallop)

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Rye pier

Desmapsamma anchorata

Lumpy overgrowing sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Hilma Hooker

mayby Desmapsamma anchorata

Lumpy overgrowing sponge ?

Caribbean, Bonaire 2013
Dive site: house reef Buddy (night dive)

Ianthella quadrangulata

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Camp cove

Iotrochota birotulata

Green finger sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Sweet dreams

Negombata cortica

Red finger sponge

Wadi Lahami, Egypt 2003
Dive site: Shaab rour north

Petromica (Petromica) massalis

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Labuan segala

Placospongia melobesioides

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Batu Gosoh 1

ASA-317_maybe_Spongia_sp_undetermined_sponge

mayby Spongia sp.

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

probably Tedania (Tedania) anhelans

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty

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Class Demospongiae

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Batu lubang zero (night dive)

Class Demospongiae

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Bianca

Class Demospongiae

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Air bajo 2

Class Demospongiae

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Tanjung kubur

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

Class Demospongiae

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Heteropiidae (class Calcarea)

Heteropia minor

Bagpipe of the sea

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Tuble reef south

Heteropia minor

Bagpipe of the sea

Negros, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Paliton (cave)

Heteropia minor

Bagpipe of the sea

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Fish feeding

Heteropia minor

Bagpipe of the sea

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Kasai point

Heteropia minor

(and Atriolum robustum)

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: house reef Portulano (night dive)

mayby Vosmaeropsis mackinnoni

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

Vosmaeropsis wilsoni

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Honeycomb

Leucettidae (class Calcarea)

Leucetta avocado

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Kubu, Batu Indah

Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Ligpo island (night dive)

Leucetta chagosensis

(with maybe Polydorella prolifera)

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: house reef Portulano

Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Lamanok Island

probably Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

probably Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

probably Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

Leucetta chagosensis

Lemon sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Emma

Leucetta microraphis

Negros, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Siquijor wall

Leucetta microraphis

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: The passage

Leucetta microraphis

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Leucetta prolifera

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

Leucetta prolifera

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

Leucetta prolifera

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

Leucetta prolifera

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

mayby Leucetta prolifera

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

IB2-297 unidentified sponge, maybe Leucetta sp 1

mayby Leucetta sp.

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Kubu, Temple

FNE-094 undetermined sponge, maybe Leucetta sp.

mayby Leucetta sp.

Negros, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Siquijor wall

FM2-193 undetermined sponge, maybe Leucetta sp.

mayby Leucetta sp.

Cebu, the Philippines 2012
Dive site: Dolphin house

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Syconidae (class Calcarea)

Sycon cf. gelatinosum

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

mayby Sycon raphanus

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Blairgowrie pier

Sycon sp.

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Flinders pier

Sycon sp.

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Port Hughes jetty

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Point peron

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty

mayby Sycon sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

Other Calcarea

Amphoriscus semoni

Bali, Indonesia 2024
Dive site: Blue lagoon

Ascandra chrysops

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Pygmy house

Janusya tubuloreticulosa

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Retak Larry

Janusya tubuloreticulosa

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Police pier

Leucaltis nodusgordii

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Friwenbonda

Teichonopsis labyrinthica

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks (night dive)

Teichonopsis labyrinthica

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

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probably class Calcarea

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Nudi falls

maybe class Calcarea

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

class Homoscleromorpha

Oscarella sp.

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

FMO-197_maybe_Plakortis_sp_undetermined_sponge

mayby Plakortis sp.

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Lamanok Island

undetermined sponge

undetermined sponges

Cebu, the Philippines 2007
Dive site: Pescador east

undetermined sponge

Halmahera, Indonesia 2010
Dive site: Gemaf

undetermined, probably a sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2011
Dive site: Kubu, Temple

undetermined sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: The passage

undetermined sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Five rocks

undetermined sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: house reef Sorido (night dive)

undetermined sponge

Raja Ampat, Indonesia 2014
Dive site: Friwenbonda

undetermined sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Nilog

undetermined sponge

Anilao, the Philippines 2015
Dive site: Ligpo cavern

undetermined sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Pos II

undetermined sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Blue corner

undetermined sponge

Bali, Indonesia 2016
Dive site: Menjangan, Mimpi chanel

undetermined sponge

Romblon, the Philippines 2017
Dive site: San Pedro

undetermined sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Batu Lihunu

undetermined sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Batu Sahaung

undetermined sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Tanjung Totohe

undetermined sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Batu Beka

undetermined sponge

Bangka, Indonesia 2017
Dive site: Efrata

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undetermined sponge

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Rye pier

undetermined sponge

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Blairgowrie pier

undetermined sponge

Australia, Victoria 2018
Dive site: Blairgowrie pier

undetermined sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Rapid bay jetty

undetermined sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Port Hughes jetty

undetermined sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

undetermined sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

undetermined sponge

South Australia 2018
Dive site: Edithburg jetty

undetermined sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Pygmy house

undetermined sponge

Philippines, Anda 2018
Dive site: Pygmy house

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Honeycomb

with Polydorella prolifera?

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Kwinana grain terminal

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Bulk terminal / Bulk jetty

with Polydorella prolifera?

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Point peron

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

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undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Canal rocks, Honeycombs

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Coogee marina, north wall

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Coogee marina, north wall

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Fremantle, South mole

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Cottesloe south beach

undetermined sponge

Western Australia 2020
Dive site: Ammo jetty (night dive)

undetermined sponge

Caribbean, Bonaire 2021
Dive site: Salt pier (night dive)

undetermined sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Marigani

undetermined sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Emma

undetermined sponge

Manado Bay, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Circus critter 3

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undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge (with Santia sp.)

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Bianca

undetermined sponge

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Pulau makawide

undetermined sponge

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Pulau makawide

undetermined sponge

Lembeh, Indonesia 2022
Dive site: Teluk kembahu 1

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Monument

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Pipeline

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point (night dive)

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Nelson bay, Fly point

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Bare island

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

undetermined sponge

Australia, New South Wales 2023
Dive site: Gordons bay

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My sponge is my castle

The Barrel sponge, Xestospongia testudinaria provides a home or shelter for many permanent or temporary guests. Some of the barrel sponges are big enough to fit a man. The rim if soft and vulnerable, but the surface is hard and deeply ridged.

In the ridges you can often find different kind of crustaceans. The Pink squat lobster is probably the best known and permanent inhabitant. As far as I know it’s only found on the barrel sponge. But there’s many more crustaceans to be found between the ridges, especially different species of porcelain crabs.

Also other species find a refuge on the barrel sponge. They’re sometimes covered with Lampert's sea cucumbers, at night small fishes like (Pseud)anthias species and Spotted hawkfish can be found sleeping between the ridges.

On the house reef of Kubu Indah Dive Resort we found a big Barrel Sponge, acting as a kind of apartment building. During several night dives we found over 10 different species, among them our first Bumblebee shrimp. But also the other barrel sponges on the house reef all had their guests.