Examples of Porifera

Calcareous sponges (Calcarea): These are small, vase-shaped sponges that have a calcareous skeleton. They are found in shallow waters and often have bright colors.

Glass sponges (Hexactinellida): These are deep-sea sponges that have a skeleton made of silica. They are usually found in colder waters and can have intricate, lattice-like structures.

Demosponges (Demospongiae): These are the most common and diverse group of sponges. They can have a variety of shapes and colors, and are found in both shallow and deep waters.

Giant barrel sponges (Xestospongia muta): These are large, barrel-shaped sponges that can grow up to six feet tall. They are found in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

Elephant ear sponge (Agelas clathrodes): This is a colorful, branching sponge that is found in the Caribbean and other warm waters. Its shape resembles an elephant ear, hence its name.

Venus’ flower basket (Euplectella aspergillum): This is a beautiful, delicate glass sponge that is found in the Pacific Ocean. It has a complex, vase-like structure and is often used in art and design.

Common example of Porifera

• Scypha gelatinosum
• Leucosolenia complicata
• Euplectella aspergillus
• Hyalonema longissimum
• Spongilla lacustris
• Clathyrina sp.