Reeflings

Common name: Lumpy orange sponge

Scientific name: Stylissa massa (Carter, 1887)

General information

The Carmine Sea Sponge, Stylissa massa, is a vibrant and captivating species that adds a splash of color and natural filtration to reef aquariums. This sponge is known for its intense red to orange coloration and its intricate, branching structure that provides a unique aesthetic to any tank. Sponges like Stylissa massa are filter feeders, which means they play a crucial role in maintaining water quality by removing fine particulate matter and providing a habitat for beneficial microorganisms.

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
30 cm (1′)
Care level
Moderate to easy Requires stable water conditions.
Diet
Omnivore Feeds on microplankton in the water.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Sponges
    Porifera
  3. Class
    Demosponges
    Demospongiae
  4. Order
    Serpulid Worms
    Scopalinida
  5. Family
    Scooter Blennies
    Scopalinidae
  6. Genus
    Stylissa
    Stylissa
  7. Species
    Lumpy orange sponge
    Stylissa massa (Carter, 1887)
  8. Synonyms
    Auletta celebensis Thiele, 1899
    Axinella massa Carter, 1887
    Axinella virgultosa massa Carter, 1887
    Hymeniacidon aldis de Laubenfels, 1954
    Hymeniacidon conulosa (Topsent, 1897)
    Phakellia conulosa mauritiana Dendy, 1922
    Phakellia mauritiana Dendy, 1922
    Stylissa aurantium (Kelly-Borges & Bergquist, 1988)
    Stylissa conulosa mauritiana (Dendy, 1922)
    Stylissa digitata gracilis (Hentschel, 1912)
    Stylotella aurantium Kelly-Borges & Bergquist, 1988
    Stylotella conulosa Topsent, 1897
    Stylotella gracilis Hentschel, 1912
    Suberites mollis Kieschnick, 1900

Care

Caring for Stylissa massa requires stable water conditions and moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat. They thrive in well-lit environments but can also adapt to lower light conditions. It's crucial to ensure that they are never exposed to air, as this can cause the internal channels to become blocked and lead to the sponge's death. Feeding can be supplemented with planktonic foods designed for filter feeders.

Symbiosis

While Stylissa massa does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships as anemones or corals that host fish or invertebrates, it does provide a microhabitat for a variety of microscopic organisms. These organisms, in turn, contribute to the nutrient cycling within the aquarium ecosystem.

Habitat

Stylissa massa is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas with strong currents such as reef slopes and channels. They are often seen at varying depths, usually between 5 to 30 meters, where they can take advantage of the nutrient-rich waters.