Common name: Cliona viridis

General information

Cliona viridis, commonly known as the Green Cliona Sponge, is a species of demosponge found in marine environments. This sponge is particularly known for its bright green coloration, which is due to the presence of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae live within the sponge's tissues and provide it with nutrients through photosynthesis, a relationship that allows Cliona viridis to thrive in nutrient-poor waters.

The Green Cliona Sponge is also recognized for its ability to bore into calcareous substrates, such as mollusk shells and coral skeletons, using chemical and mechanical means. This bioerosion process can significantly alter the structure of coral reefs over time.

Care

In the aquarium, Cliona viridis requires stable water conditions with moderate to high lighting to support its symbiotic algae. It is important to provide a suitable substrate for the sponge to attach to and potentially bore into. Care should be taken to ensure that the sponge is never exposed to air, as this can be fatal.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Cliona viridis can occur both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, while asexual reproduction can happen through budding or fragmentation. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction is more commonly observed.

Symbiosis

The symbiotic relationship between Cliona viridis and its zooxanthellae is a classic example of mutualism. The sponge provides a protected environment and access to light for the algae, while the algae supply the sponge with organic compounds produced through photosynthesis.

Habitat

Cliona viridis is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent Atlantic coasts. It typically inhabits shallow waters where sunlight can penetrate, allowing its zooxanthellae to photosynthesize effectively. The sponge's boring activity is an important ecological process in its natural habitat, contributing to the dynamics of coral reef ecosystems.