Common name: Caribbean Cliona Sponge

General information

Cliona caribbaea, commonly known as the Caribbean Cliona Sponge, is a species of boring sponge found in coral reef ecosystems. This sponge is known for its ability to bore into calcareous substrates, including coral skeletons and limestone. It has a yellow to orange coloration and is characterized by its papillae, which are the visible parts of the sponge that protrude from the substrate.

The boring activity of Cliona caribbaea plays a significant role in bioerosion processes on coral reefs, contributing to the breakdown and recycling of calcium carbonate. This process is both beneficial and detrimental to the reef structure; while it helps in creating habitats for other organisms, it can also weaken the structural integrity of corals.

Care

Keeping Cliona caribbaea in a reef aquarium can be challenging due to its invasive nature. Hobbyists should provide a stable environment with adequate calcium levels to support the sponge's boring activity. It is important to monitor the sponge's growth and prevent it from overgrowing or damaging valuable live corals.

Reproduction

Cliona caribbaea reproduces both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction occurs through the release of gametes into the water column, while asexual reproduction happens through budding. In an aquarium setting, controlling the spread of this sponge is crucial to maintain balance in the ecosystem.

Symbiosis

While Cliona caribbaea does not have notable symbiotic relationships like those seen in clownfish and anemones, its role in bioerosion creates niches for other reef organisms, indirectly supporting biodiversity.

Habitat

The Caribbean Cliona Sponge is typically found in shallow to mid-depth coral reefs throughout the Caribbean Sea. It prefers areas with strong water flow and access to sunlight, which are essential for its symbiotic zooxanthellae that aid in its nutrition through photosynthesis.