Common name: Haliclona fascigera

General information

Haliclona fascigera, commonly known as the Orange Elephant Ear Sponge, is a colorful and intriguing addition to the marine aquarium. This species belongs to the phylum Porifera, which encompasses all sponges. Sponges are some of the simplest multicellular organisms, lacking true tissues and organs, but they play a vital role in marine ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitat for other organisms.

Care

The care of Haliclona fascigera requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They are non-photosynthetic and rely on water flow to bring them food particles. It is important to provide moderate to strong water flow and to supplement their diet with planktonic foods. They should not be exposed to intense lighting as they do not possess symbiotic algae like some other sponge species.

Reproduction

Sponges, including Haliclona fascigera, have a unique reproductive strategy. They can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm into the water column, which is then captured by other sponges carrying eggs. Asexual reproduction occurs through budding or fragmentation, allowing pieces of the sponge to grow into new individuals.

Habitat

Haliclona fascigera is found in a variety of marine environments, often on reef slopes and in lagoons. They typically inhabit areas with good water flow, which is essential for their filter-feeding lifestyle. In the wild, they can be found at various depths, often attaching to hard substrates.