Common name: Boring Sponge

General information

The Boring Sponge, scientifically known as Siphonodictyon coralliphagum, is a species of sponge that is known for its unique ability to bore into the calcium carbonate skeletons of corals. This sponge is not commonly kept in home aquariums due to its destructive nature towards coral structures. It is more of an interest to researchers studying bioerosion and the interactions between sponges and corals.

Care

In the unlikely event that a hobbyist wishes to keep the Boring Sponge, extreme caution should be exercised. This sponge requires a stable aquarium with established water parameters, and it should not be housed with live corals that it can damage. It is a filter feeder, requiring a supply of planktonic food to maintain its health.

Symbiosis

Siphonodictyon coralliphagum does not form beneficial symbiotic relationships with corals. Instead, it is known for its detrimental impact on coral reefs by boring into and weakening the coral's structure, which can lead to increased susceptibility to breakage and disease.

Habitat

The Boring Sponge is found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world, often in coral reef environments where it embeds itself within the coral substrate. It is a part of the complex reef ecosystem and plays a role in the natural process of bioerosion.