Common name: Pink Encrusting Sponge

General information

Haliclona rosea, commonly known as the Pink Encrusting Sponge, is a species of sponge found in marine environments. This sponge is known for its vibrant pink coloration and its encrusting growth form, which allows it to spread over rocks and other surfaces in the reef aquarium. It is a filter feeder, drawing in water to extract nutrients and oxygen.

Care

The Pink Encrusting Sponge requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. It thrives in moderate to low light and requires a moderate water flow to facilitate its feeding process. It is important to ensure that the sponge is never exposed to air, as this can cause tissue damage.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Haliclona rosea typically occurs asexually through budding or fragmentation, allowing hobbyists to propagate the sponge by carefully cutting a piece of it and attaching it to another rock or surface in the aquarium.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish and anemones, sponges like Haliclona rosea play a crucial role in the reef ecosystem by filtering water and providing a habitat for a variety of microorganisms.

Habitat

Haliclona rosea is found in a range of marine habitats, including coral reefs and rocky substrates. In the wild, it is often found in shallow waters where it can take advantage of the available light for the symbiotic algae that live within its tissues.