Axinella polypoides

(Schmidt, 1862)

Vernacular names
English : Yellow antlers sponge
French : Axinelle commune

Classification
Class : Demospongiae
Order : Axinellida
Family : Axinellidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
These sponges have a tree-like structure and can reach up to 1 meter in height. The surface is a little rough and the oscula are small and grouped in circles or star shapes. Axil is thick and cylindrical. Coloration bright yellow to dark orange.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in eastern Atlantic Ocean, from Great Britain to Portugal and in the Mediterranean Sea. Found on rocky edges and reef slopes on rocky bottoms, down to 100 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : This species’ status hasn’t been assessed. When not destroyed by fishing nets or pollution, this sponge can be pretty common in suitable habitat.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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