Genus

Common name: Petrosia Sponges

Scientific name: Petrosia

Petrosia is a genus of sponges found in reef environments, known for their robust and often massive growth forms. These sponges are important for their role in the reef's ecosystem, contributing to the structural complexity and providing habitats for a variety of marine organisms. They exhibit a range of colors, typically brown, gray, or greenish, and have a firm texture. Petrosia sponges are filter feeders, sieving plankton and organic particles from the water. While not a common choice for reef aquariums due to their specific care requirements and slow growth, they can be fascinating additions for advanced hobbyists looking to diversify their tank's inhabitants.

  1. Nudibranch / Sea slug (Discodoris / Peltodoris atromaculata) feeding on a sponge (Petrosia ficiformis) Cala di Grecu, Lavezzi Islands, Corsica, France, September 2008
    Common name: Poisonous Sponge
    Scientific name: Petrosia ficiformis