Common name: Ruetzler's Sponge
General information
Scopalina ruetzleri, commonly known as Ruetzler's Sponge, is a species of encrusting sponge found in Caribbean coral reef ecosystems. This sponge is known for its ability to blend into its surroundings due to its encrusting nature and coloration that often matches the substrate it grows on. It is a filter feeder, drawing in water to extract nutrients and oxygen.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 40 liter (11 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 5 cm (2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires stable conditions.
- Diet
- Detritivore Feeds on detritus and bacteria.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumSpongesPorifera
- ClassDemospongesDemospongiae
- OrderSerpulid WormsScopalinida
- FamilyScooter BlenniesScopalinidae
- GenusScopalinaScopalina
- SpeciesRuetzler's SpongeScopalina ruetzleri (Wiedenmayer, 1977)
- SynonymsDictyonella ruetzleri (Wiedenmayer, 1977)Ulosa ruetzleri Wiedenmayer, 1977
Care
Ruetzler's Sponge requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. It thrives in areas with moderate to strong water flow, which facilitates its filter-feeding habits. Lighting should be moderate, as high intensity can promote the growth of algae on its surface. It is important to maintain good water quality, with low levels of nitrates and phosphates.
Reproduction
Sponges like Scopalina ruetzleri 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 reproduce by budding, where a part of the sponge breaks off and grows into a new individual.
Symbiosis
While Scopalina ruetzleri does not have notable symbiotic relationships like those seen in anemones or corals, it does play a role in the reef ecosystem by providing microhabitats for various small organisms and contributing to the overall health of the reef by filtering water.
Habitat
Ruetzler's Sponge is typically found in the Caribbean Sea, often in association with coral reefs. It prefers to attach to hard substrates and can be found at various depths, often ranging from shallow waters to deeper reef slopes.