Size

Colony height and width: 30cm (1")

Recognition Characters

Most commonly grows in vase or barrel shape. Outside of sponge surface is irregular with scattered pores. May also have longitudinal ribs on exterior sides.

Color

Purple, Purplish brown, or brown

Habitat & Depth

Tropical and temperate reefs. To 40m depth. Also shallow seagrass lagoons.

Distribution at GRNMS

Abundant. Found on tops of ledges and rocky outcroppings.

Geographic Range

Georgia, Florida, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico

Behavior & Notes

Synonyms

References

Meinkoth 1981, Kaplan 1988