Clathria rugosa

(Hooper & Lévi, 1993)

Vernacular names
English : Orange ear sponge
French : Eponge-oreille orange

Classification
Class : Demospongiae
Order : Poecilosclerida
Family : Microcionidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adult specimens can reach a height of nearly 1 meter. Its base is relatively narrow and the body expends in a fan-like or ear-like shape. Surface is rugose and wrinkly with ridges perpendicular to body edge. Bright orange coloration.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in south-western Pacific Ocean, mostly around New Caledonia and possibly close to eastern Australia (but this hasn’t been verified). Lives in caves and other shaded areas of reefs, down to 110 meters deep.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species’ status hasn’t been assessed yet but it appears to be common in suitable habitat. It is occasionally collected for the aquarium trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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