Sponges

Summary:

Mangroves are the only substrate for sponges in the ecosystem
They leak carbon from their roots which is then absorbed by the sponges
Sponges also help the mangroves by protecting the mangrove roots from being attacked by isopods
The sponge provides inorganic nitrogen for the tree
Both the sponge and the tree grow faster due two this relationship
Mangroves grow 2-4 times faster with sponges on the root than bare roots
Mussels and sponges attach to the mangrove roots, forming a mutualistic relationship with the trees.
Sponges in mangroves are different from sponges in reefs because they have species that can adapt to survive extremes in salinity, temperature and sedimentation
The sponges gravitate to the roots because it is an easy place to hold on to and also can supply the sponges with vital nutrients.
These nutrients are obtained through "rootlets" that the root sends out into the sponge.

Specific species of Sponges:

Loggerhead Sponge (Spheciospongia Vesparium)

Barrel shape with a flat top
The depression in the middle has excurrent openings on the sponge
The surface is bumpy and tough with pores
The color is purple and brownish black
commonly found in shallow coral reefs or lagoons
mainly in Florida, Caribbean and the Bahamas

Red Encrusting Sponge (Monanchora Arbuscula)

root-like canals
slightly raised oscules
they are a red color sometimes with white spots
encrust dead areas of reefs
encrusting forms around the bases of living coral heads
they are most common in the Caribbean and sometimes Florida or the Bahamas

“The Wonders of the Seas:” Accessed January 18, 2017. http://www.oceanicresearch.org/education/wonders/mangroves.htm.

http://www.int-res.com/articles/meps_oa/m481p105.pdf

“Marine Species Identification Portal : Red Encrusting Sponge - Monanchora Arbuscula.” Accessed February 28, 2017. http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=caribbean_diving_guide&id=457.

“Marine Species Identification Portal : Loggerhead Sponge - Spheciospongia Vesparium.” Accessed February 28, 2017. http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=caribbean_diving_guide&id=471.

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