Cloud Sponge [Aphrocallistes vastus]
Description
The Cloud Sponge is a species of glass sponge that can be found in the Northeast Pacific Ocean. It can reach a height of up to 3 metres. It is a filter feeder, and has a unique ability to rebuild itself if it is damaged. It has a cloud-like appearance, and its skeleton is composed of a network of silica spicules. It is usually found in deep waters, on vertical rock walls, where it can form extensive fields.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Demospongiae
Demospongiae
|
| Order |
Tetractinellida
Tetractinellida
|
| Family |
Glass Sponges
Petrosiidae
|
| Genus |
Aphrocallistes
Aphrocallistes
|