Marine Species Identification Portal : Vase sponge

Vase sponge
Ircinia campana
(Lamarck, 1816)

Description:
Cup-shaped sponges, although asymmetrical specimens with a lower and a higher cup-wall are common. Sponge up to 50 cm high and 40 cm in diameter. Thickness of the cup wall is 0.5-3 cm and the consistency is fleshy but tough. Surface strongly conulose. The conules are about 4 mm high and mostly 5-6 mm apart (I. campana-close up). Conules on the inside of the cup distinctly lower and closer together than those on the outside. Oscules only on the inside; 4-10 mm in diameter.

Color:
Reddish brown.

Habitat:
Inhabit shallow to mid-range reefs. Prefer brightly lit areas.

Distribution:
From Florida to Brazil.

Vase sponge (Ircinia campana)