Porifera
Aplysina fulva
(Scattered Pore Rope Sponge)
1. In situ (Greg McFall)
2. In situ (Patrick Erwin)
3. In situ - full yellow growth morph (Patrick Erwin)
4. In situ - full yellow growth morph (Patrick Erwin)
5. Out of water (Steve Vives)
6. Out of water (Steve Vives)
Size
Branch length: Can reach 60-90cm (24-36") Arm width: 3-6cm (1-2")
Recognition Characters
Excurrent openings are scattered along arms of sponge. Sponge is characterized by long, branching and rope-like arms, often ending in dichotomous tips. Sponge is rough to touch due to abundant raised pores on surface.
Color
Variable shades of yellow and purple
Habitat & Depth
Tropical and temperate reefs. To 40m depth.
Distribution at GRNMS
Abundant. Found on the top of ledges.
Geographic Range
Caribbean, Florida, Georgia
Behavior & Notes
This sponge is fed upon by the Blue Angelfish.
Synonyms
Humann 1992a