Common name: Elephant Ear Sponge

General information

The Elephant Ear Sponge, Agelas schmidtii, is a large and impressive sponge species found in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its distinctive ear-like shape and vibrant orange to red coloration. This sponge is a filter feeder, drawing in water to extract nutrients and oxygen. It's a fascinating addition to any reef aquarium due to its unique appearance and the role it plays in the marine ecosystem.

Care

Agelas schmidtii requires a well-established aquarium with strong water flow and excellent water quality to thrive. It is a non-photosynthetic species, meaning it does not rely on light for nutrition, but rather on the availability of dissolved organic matter in the water. Hobbyists should ensure that the sponge is never exposed to air, as this can cause air bubbles to become trapped in its internal canal system, leading to tissue damage or death.

Reproduction

Sponges like Agelas schmidtii reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction is more common, with the sponge growing new clones from fragments that break off the parent organism. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm into the water column, which then fertilizes eggs in other sponges, leading to the development of free-swimming larvae.

Symbiosis

While Agelas schmidtii does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships as corals or anemones, it does play a crucial role in the reef ecosystem. It provides habitat for a variety of microorganisms and small invertebrates, contributing to the biodiversity of the reef.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Elephant Ear Sponge is typically on reef slopes and walls, where it can be found at various depths. It prefers areas with strong currents that facilitate its filter-feeding lifestyle. In the wild, Agelas schmidtii is often found in the Caribbean Sea and adjacent regions.