Common name: Yellow Sponge

General information

Smenospongia aurea, commonly known as the Yellow Sponge, is a species of sponge found in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its bright yellow coloration and its irregular, massive shape that can add a unique aesthetic to any reef aquarium. This sponge is a filter feeder, drawing in water to extract nutrients and oxygen.

Care

Yellow Sponges require a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They thrive in areas with moderate to strong water flow, which facilitates their filter-feeding behavior. It is crucial to avoid exposing them to air, as trapped air bubbles can be fatal. They do not require additional feeding if the water quality is high and there is sufficient plankton present.

Reproduction

Sponges like Smenospongia aurea reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, they may reproduce asexually through budding, where a part of the sponge breaks off and develops into a new individual. Sexual reproduction is less common in captivity but involves the release of sperm into the water column to fertilize eggs in other sponges.

Symbiosis

Sponges, including Smenospongia aurea, often host a variety of microorganisms within their tissues. These symbiotic relationships can include bacteria that aid in the sponge's nitrogen cycle, providing a cleaner environment for the aquarium.

Habitat

The Yellow Sponge is typically found in shallow reef environments and seagrass beds in the Caribbean. They are often attached to hard substrates where they can access the water flow necessary for their filter-feeding lifestyle.