Ircinia fasciculata

(Stinker Sponge)

Size

Colony height and width: 30cm (1")

Recognition Characters

Sponge has irregular growth pattern. Most commonly grows in nodes or lobes, but can also branch. Surface has abundant pointed projections (pores) and oscules are large and conspicuous.

Color

Purple, Purplish white, pale white

Habitat & Depth

Tropical and temperate reefs. To 40m depth.

Distribution at GRNMS

Abundant. Found on tops of ledges and rocky outcroppings. Grows in various shapes.

Geographic Range

North Carolina south to Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico

Behavior & Notes

Synonyms

References

Meinkoth 1981, Wells et al. 1960