Sponge Guide

UNCW National Science Foundation Valdosta State University Universidad Nacional de Colombia

Observed Characteristics:

Color:

  • red
  • brown
  • orange
  • cinnamon-tan

Morphology:

  • massive
  • vase

Consistency:

  • crumbly

Sample Locations:

  • Bahamas
  • Netherland Antilles

Neofibularia nolitangere

Notes: “Touch-me-not sponge.” In the Bahamas it occurs as thick encrustation to tall masses with scattered wide and deep atria, maroon to orange-brown; oscules inside atria are directed diagonally upwards. In other Caribbean areas it consists of large vases/tubes, single or in groups, while in the Bahama it appears as if these vases had laterally fused. It produces strong itching when handled.

Author Reference: (Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864)

 

Link: World Porifera Database