Family

Common name: Hymedesmiidae Sponges

Scientific name: Hymedesmiidae

Hymedesmiidae is a family of sponges within the order Poecilosclerida. These sponges are known for their encrusting growth forms and can be found in a variety of marine environments. They often display a range of colors and can add a unique aesthetic to a reef aquarium. Hymedesmiidae sponges are filter feeders, playing a role in nutrient cycling by consuming dissolved organic matter and bacteria. They require stable water conditions and moderate to strong water flow to thrive in captivity. It's important to ensure they are not smothered by algae or outcompeted by faster-growing sessile organisms.

  1. Spugna hemimycale columella tra idrozoii
    Common name: Columella Sponge
    Scientific name: Hemimycale columella
  2. Common name: Hymedesmia paupertas
    Scientific name: Hymedesmia paupertas
  3. Common name: Red Sponge
    Scientific name: Phorbas amaranthus
  4. Close-up of rock covered with encrusting sponge (Spirastrella cunctatrix) and (Phorbas tenacior) Larvotto Marine Reserve, Monaco, Mediterranean Sea, July 2009
    Common name: Phorbas tenacior
    Scientific name: Phorbas tenacior