Common name: Reticulated Sponge
General information
Callyspongia pseudoreticulata, commonly known as the Reticulated Sponge, is a species of sponge found in coral reef environments. This sponge is known for its intricate network of channels and pores, which give it a distinctive reticulated appearance. It is a filter feeder, playing a crucial role in the reef ecosystem by processing large volumes of water to extract nutrients.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 100 liter (26 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 30 cm (1′)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires stable water conditions.
- Diet
- Planktivore Feeds on plankton in the water column.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumSpongesPorifera
- ClassDemospongesDemospongiae
- OrderHaplosclerida spongesHaplosclerida
- FamilyCallyspongiaCallyspongiidae
- GenusCallyspongiaCallyspongia
- SpeciesReticulated SpongeCallyspongia pseudoreticulata Desqueyroux-Faúndez, 1984
Care
Reticulated Sponges require stable water conditions with moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat. They are non-photosynthetic and rely on the water flow to bring them food particles. It is important to maintain good water quality, as sponges are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and pollutants.
Reproduction
Sponges like Callyspongia pseudoreticulata reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm into the water column, which then fertilizes eggs in other sponges. Asexually, they can regenerate from fragments that break off, a process known as budding.
Habitat
Callyspongia pseudoreticulata is typically found in warm, tropical reef environments. They are often seen attached to hard substrates in areas with strong currents, which aid in their filter-feeding process.