Common name: Flabelliformis Sponge
General information
The Flabelliformis Sponge, scientifically known as Stylissa flabelliformis, is a captivating marine sponge species that adds a touch of diversity and intrigue to any reef aquarium. This sponge is characterized by its fan-like shape and vibrant coloration, which can range from yellow to orange hues. As filter feeders, these sponges play a crucial role in maintaining water quality by removing suspended particles and bacteria.
Details
- Recommended minimum 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
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires stable conditions.
- Diet
- Planktivore Feeds on microplankton in water.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumSpongesPorifera
- ClassDemospongesDemospongiae
- OrderSerpulid WormsScopalinida
- FamilyScooter BlenniesScopalinidae
- GenusStylissaStylissa
- SpeciesFlabelliformis SpongeStylissa flabelliformis (Hentschel, 1912)
- SynonymsStylotella flabelliformis Hentschel, 1912
Care
Caring for Stylissa flabelliformis requires a stable aquarium environment with moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat, which helps in the efficient capture of food particles. They thrive in well-lit conditions but do not require intense lighting as corals do. It's essential to maintain high water quality with low nitrate and phosphate levels to prevent tissue necrosis. Supplemental feeding with planktonic food can benefit their growth and health.
Reproduction
Sponges, including Stylissa flabelliformis, have a unique reproductive strategy that involves both asexual and sexual reproduction. Asexually, they can regenerate from fragments, a process known as budding. Sexually, they release sperm into the water column, which is then captured by other sponges carrying eggs, leading to internal fertilization and the release of free-swimming larvae that settle to form new sponges.
Habitat
Stylissa flabelliformis is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits reef slopes and lagoons. They are often seen attached to hard substrates in areas with strong currents, which aids in their filter-feeding lifestyle. In the aquarium, they should be placed in areas with similar water flow conditions to ensure their well-being.