Porifera
Aiolochroia crassa
(Yellow & Green Tube Sponge)
1. In situ (Patrick Erwin)
2. In situ (Patrick Erwin)
3. In situ - dorsal view of oscules (Patrick Erwin)
4. In situ - small colony (Patrick Erwin)
5. In situ - small colony (Chris Freeman)
6. Out of water (Patrick Erwin)
7. Out of water - Picture demonstrates how Aiolochroia crassa oxidizes rapidly out of water (Patrick Erwin)
Size
Colony height: to 30cm (1')
Recognition Characters
Smooth except for rounded conuli distributed across surface. Sponge consists of dendritic knotty fibers 0.5mm thick. Sponge is rubbery with a firm consistency and grows in a cushion or cluster of massive conical chimneys. Large oscules at tips of chimneys.
Color
Variable. Color can range from a dull green, brownish-yellow, to bright yellow, and purplish-yellow.
Habitat & Depth
Tropical and temperate reefs. To 40m depth.
Distribution at GRNMS
Occasional.
Geographic Range
Georgia, Florida, Caribbean, and West Indies. To 30m depth.
Behavior & Notes
This sponge is aerophobic and oxides quickly out of water. Turns a bluish-purple-black and will stain fingers with a purple exudate when handled.
Synonyms
Sterrer 1986