Common name: Blue Encrusting Sponge

General information

The Blue Encrusting Sponge, Lissoclinum bistratum, is a vibrant addition to the marine aquarium, known for its intense blue coloration and mat-like growth pattern. This sponge is part of the phylum Porifera, which consists of simple, multicellular organisms that filter feed on tiny particles suspended in the water.

Care

Lissoclinum bistratum requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. It thrives in low to moderate light and needs a moderate to strong water flow to deliver its food source—plankton and dissolved organic matter. Sponges are sensitive to changes in water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial. They should never be exposed to air, as trapped air bubbles can be fatal.

Reproduction

Sponges like Lissoclinum bistratum can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, asexual reproduction through budding or fragmentation is common. This allows hobbyists to propagate the sponge by carefully cutting a piece and attaching it to a rock or substrate in the tank.

Symbiosis

While Lissoclinum bistratum does not have notable symbiotic relationships like those seen in anemones or corals, it does contribute to the overall health of the reef ecosystem by filtering water and providing a surface for beneficial microorganisms to colonize.

Habitat

In the wild, Lissoclinum bistratum is typically found in shallow reef environments where it encrusts on rocks and other hard substrates. It is often seen in areas with strong currents which facilitate its filter-feeding lifestyle.