Common name: Mauritian Sponge

General information

The Mauritian Sponge, Agelas mauritiana, is a species of sponge found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is known for its distinctive brown to orange color and tubular structure, which can add a unique aesthetic to a reef aquarium. This sponge is part of the Agelasidae family, which is characterized by a high concentration of sponges that produce bioactive compounds, some of which have been studied for their potential pharmaceutical applications.

Care

Mauritian Sponges require a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They are non-photosynthetic and rely on water flow to deliver the nutrients they filter from the water column. It is crucial to provide moderate to strong water flow and to ensure that fine particulate organic matter is available for feeding. They should not be exposed to air, as this can be fatal.

Symbiosis

While Agelas mauritiana does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships like those seen in anemones or corals, it does play a role in the reef ecosystem by filtering water and providing habitat for microorganisms.

Habitat

This sponge species is typically found on reef slopes and in lagoons at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters. They are often seen encrusting hard substrates and can form extensive networks that contribute to the complexity of the reef structure.