Common name: Australian Sponge

General information

Cinachyrella australiensis, commonly known as the Australian Sponge, is a species of marine sponge found in reef environments. This sponge is known for its hardy nature and can be a unique addition to a reef aquarium due to its interesting texture and form. It is characterized by its varying colors, often displaying hues of yellow, brown, or grey.

Care

Australian Sponges are relatively easy to maintain in a reef aquarium. They require moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat and facilitate feeding. They are filter feeders, capturing plankton and organic particles from the water column. It is important to maintain good water quality and stable conditions to support their health.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Cinachyrella australiensis typically involves both asexual and sexual methods. Asexual reproduction occurs through budding or fragmentation, allowing the sponge to spread and colonize new areas. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm into the water column, which then fertilizes eggs in nearby sponges, leading to the development of free-swimming larvae.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Australian Sponge is the coral reef ecosystems of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef. They are often found attached to hard substrates in areas with strong currents, which aid in their feeding process.