Ectyonopsis pluridentata explained

Ectyonopsis pluridentata, the fused branch sponge, is a species of demosponge from South Africa.

Description

The fused branch sponge is made up of a thick cluster of fused branches arising from an indistinct base. It grows up to 130mm long and 160mm wide. It is beige to rusty brown in colour. The surface is rough and is covered in small (<1mm) circular ostia. While it is firm and compressible, it also breaks easily.^[1]

It is a suspension and a filter feeder.^[2]

Distribution and habitat

This species is endemic to South Africa. It is found on the South and West coasts of the country, where it lives at depths of NaNm (-2,147,483,648feet).

Notes and References

1. Book: Atkinson, Lara J. Field guide to the offshore marine invertebrates of South Africa. Sink. Kerry J. 2018. South African Environmental Observation Network. 978-1-86868-098-6. Pretoria. 1037159161.
2. Web site: WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Ectyonopsis pluridentata (Lévi, 1963) . 2023-07-16 . www.marinespecies.org.