Porifera
Ptilocaulis walpersi
(Red Branching Sponge)
1. In situ (Rob Ruzicka)
2. In situ (Rob Ruzicka)
3. In situ - image shows uniform distribution of oscules down branch (Rob Ruzicka)
4. Out of water (Rob Ruzicka)
5. Out of water (Rob Ruzicka)
6. Out of water-image shows close up of oscules and rugose surface of sponge (Rob Ruzicka)
Size
Colony height: reaching 30cm (12"). Branch width: commonly 1.3-2.5cm (0.5-2")
Recognition Characters
Variable growth forms. Most commonly erect and branching, but also encrusting, irregularly massive, or fan-shaped. Surface of sponge is slimy to the touch, very soft, compressible, and extremely conulose with radiating patterns around the oscules. Oscules are regularly distributed longitudinally along branches. Branches of different sizes, irregularly dividing into other branches. Spicules are styles of two sizes.
Color
Red to orangish brown
Habitat & Depth
Tropical and temperate reefs. To 40m.
Distribution at GRNMS
Abundant. Found on adjacent mixed sandy-hard bottoms surrounding ledge.
Geographic Range
Georgia, Florida, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico
Behavior & Notes
The erect branching form is the most common growth form found at GRNMS.
Synonyms
Alvarez et al. 1998