Common name: Blue Sponge

General information

Halisarca caerulea, commonly known as the Blue Sponge, is a distinctive species of sponge found in various reef environments. This sponge is notable for its vibrant blue coloration, which can add a splash of color to any reef aquarium. Unlike many other sponges that have a more rigid structure, Halisarca caerulea has a soft, gelatinous texture, and its body is composed of a matrix of channels and chambers that facilitate the flow of water and nutrients.

Care

Caring for Halisarca caerulea in a reef aquarium requires stable water conditions and moderate to low light levels. It is important to provide a gentle, indirect flow of water as strong currents can damage the delicate tissue of the sponge. Blue Sponges are filter feeders, relying on the water flow to bring them food in the form of dissolved organic matter and plankton. They do not possess photosynthetic symbionts, so they do not require intense lighting like some other marine invertebrates.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Halisarca caerulea can occur both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, where fertilization takes place. Asexually, this sponge can reproduce by budding, where a part of the sponge breaks off and develops into a new individual. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction is more commonly observed.

Habitat

The Blue Sponge is typically found in shallow waters of tropical and subtropical regions, often attached to hard substrates such as rocks or coral rubble. It thrives in areas with good water quality and moderate flow, which are conditions that can be replicated in a well-maintained home aquarium.