Common name: encrusting turret sponge

General information

The Orange Elephant Ear Sponge, scientifically known as Haliclona oculata, is a colorful and intriguing addition to the marine aquarium. This sponge species is known for its vibrant orange coloration and ear-like lobes that can add a unique aesthetic to any reef tank. Sponges like Haliclona oculata are filter feeders, playing a crucial role in the nutrient cycle of marine ecosystems by filtering water for organic matter and bacteria.

Care

Caring for Haliclona oculata requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They thrive in moderate to strong water flow which facilitates their filter-feeding behavior. It's important to maintain high water quality, as sponges are sensitive to elevated levels of nitrates and other pollutants. They do not require additional feeding if the tank has a sufficient amount of dissolved organic material, but they can benefit from supplemental planktonic foods.

Reproduction

Sponges like Haliclona oculata reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction through budding or fragmentation is more common. Fragments that break off the parent sponge can attach to substrate and grow into new individuals. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, but this is less likely to occur in the home aquarium.

Symbiosis

While Haliclona oculata does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships as some corals and anemones, it does provide microhabitats for a variety of small marine organisms. Its structure offers shelter and a surface for other invertebrates and microfauna to settle and thrive.

Habitat

In the wild, Haliclona oculata is typically found in shallow waters attached to rocks or other hard substrates. They are common in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the coasts of Europe and North America. In the aquarium, they should be placed in areas with good water flow and away from aggressive neighbors that might overgrow or damage them.