Order

Common name: Agelasid Sponges

Scientific name: Agelasida

Agelasida is an order of marine sponges known for their complex skeletal structures composed of spongin fibers and silica. They are characterized by their robust and often brightly colored bodies, which can add a unique aesthetic to reef aquariums. Agelasid sponges are filter feeders, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling by processing large volumes of water. They require stable water conditions and moderate to strong water flow to thrive. These sponges are also known for producing bioactive compounds, some of which have been studied for their potential pharmaceutical applications.

  1. Caribbean coral reef
    Common name: orange elephant ear sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas clathrodes
  2. Agelas conifera, brown tube sponge
    Common name: Brown Tube Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas conifera
  3. Common name: Rough Tube Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas dispar
  4. Common name: Fan Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas flabelliformis
  5. Branching sponge weed and seaweed
    Common name: Slimy Branching Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas gracilis
  6. Common name: Mauritian Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas mauritiana
  7. Oranger Demosponge (Agelas oroides), Corfu, Greece, Europe
    Common name: Gold Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas oroides
  8. Orange Elephant Ear Sponge (Agelas Clathrodes)
    Common name: Elephant Ear Sponge
    Scientific name: Agelas schmidtii
  9. Common name: Living Fossil Sponge
    Scientific name: Astrosclera willeyana