 |
Invertebrates |  |
Phylum: Porifera, Class: Demospongiae
Range: Caribbean
Size: 6 in. Space:: 55+ gal. Diet: Plankton, Microplankton
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Peaceful
Natural History: The Red Ball Sponge is found in deeper reef areas of moderate to strong current where it feeds on plankton that it draws through its porous body.
Husbandry: The Red Ball Sponge prefers bulk water movement and not the point-source water flow provided by powerheads. It should be housed in moderate to low-light levels, to prevent the overgrowth of algae. No part of the sponge should ever be exposed to air. If air enters any part of the sponge, the cells near the air intrusion will die, resulting in decomposition and the production of more gas, which will eventually kill the entire sponge.