Common name: Lemon sponge

General information

Leucetta chagosensis, commonly known as the Chagos Leucetta Sponge, is a species of calcareous sponge found in tropical reef environments. Unlike the more familiar soft and stony corals, calcareous sponges have a skeleton made of calcium carbonate. They are characterized by their white, chalky appearance and intricate pore structure, which facilitates their filter-feeding lifestyle.

Care

In the aquarium, Leucetta chagosensis requires stable water conditions with low to moderate flow and excellent water quality to thrive. They are non-photosynthetic and rely on water flow to deliver the plankton and dissolved organic matter they feed on. Regular feeding with fine particulate foods can help maintain their health in a captive environment.

Reproduction

Calcareous sponges like Leucetta chagosensis reproduce both sexually and asexually. In sexual reproduction, they release sperm into the water column, which is then captured by other sponges to fertilize their eggs internally. Asexually, they can regenerate from fragments or produce gemmules, which are resistant capsules of cells that can develop into new sponges.

Habitat

Leucetta chagosensis is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Chagos Archipelago, from which it gets its common name. They inhabit reef slopes and lagoons, often attaching to hard substrates in areas with clear water and moderate currents.