Sponge Guide

UNCW National Science Foundation Valdosta State University Universidad Nacional de Colombia

Observed Characteristics:

Color:

  • orange

Morphology:

  • bushy
  • encrusting
  • vase

Consistency:

  • tough

Sample Locations:

  • Bahamas
  • United States

Clathria (Microciona) echinata

Notes: Originally placed under genus Axociella. Also known as Clathria (Microciona) simpsoni van Soest, 1984. Bright red vases, single or in groups, with the outer surface very spiny. May be confused with Mycale laxissima (Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864), also pictured here, but the latter is usually dark purple, is much more mucous, and has a different spicule complement.

Author Reference: (Alcolado, 1984)

 

Link: World Porifera Database