Common name: Chalice sponge

Scientific name: Phakellia ventilabrum (Linnaeus, 1767)
Chalice Sponge underwater in the St. Lawrence River

General information

The Feather Star Sponge, scientifically known as Phakellia ventilabrum, is a fascinating species of sponge found in marine environments. This sponge is notable for its unique morphology, resembling the arms of a feather star (crinoid). It is a member of the Demospongiae class, which is the largest class within the phylum Porifera, encompassing over 90% of all sponge species.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.4
Average size
30 cm (1′)
Care level
Moderate to easy Requires stable conditions
Diet
Carnivore Feeds on microplankton in water
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Sponges
    Porifera
  3. Class
    Demosponges
    Demospongiae
  4. Order
    Axinellid Sponges
    Axinellida
  5. Family
    Axinellid Sponges
    Axinellidae
  6. Genus
    Phakellia sponges
    Phakellia
  7. Species
    Chalice sponge
    Phakellia ventilabrum (Linnaeus, 1767)
  8. Synonyms
    Halichondria ventilabrum (Linnaeus, 1767)
    Phacellia ventilabrum (Pallas, 1766)
    Spongia strigosa Pallas, 1766
    Spongia venosa Lamarck, 1814
    Spongia ventilabra Linnaeus, 1767

Care

Caring for Phakellia ventilabrum in a reef aquarium requires stable water conditions and moderate to strong water flow to mimic its natural habitat. It is a filter feeder, so maintaining high water quality is essential. The sponge should not be exposed to air, as this can introduce air bubbles into its system, which can be fatal.

Reproduction

Sponges like Phakellia ventilabrum can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm into the water column, which then fertilizes eggs in other sponges. Asexually, they can regenerate from fragments or produce buds that detach and grow into new individuals.

Habitat

Phakellia ventilabrum is typically found in deeper waters on rocky substrates or within coral reefs. It prefers environments where it can anchor securely and extend its body into the current for optimal feeding.