Finger Sponge
Scientific name: Holopsamma laminaefavosa
Click to enlarge image
Finger Sponge, Holopsamma laminaefavosa
Image: Dr Isobel Bennett
© Australian Museum
© Australian Museum
Fast Facts
-
Classification
- Genus
- Holopsamma
- Species
- laminaefavosa
- Family
- Microcionidae
- Order
- Poecilosclerida
- Subclass
- Ceractinomorpha
- Class
- Demospongiae
- Phylum
- Porifera
- Kingdom
- Animalia
-
- Size Range
- 50 cm
Introduction
This sponge is recognised by its hand shape or finger-like projections.
Identification
The Finger Sponge's colour varies from dull orange to brown, grey and cream. Its surface is covered in large holes giving it a honeycomb appearance.
Habitat
Finger Sponges live in coastal waters and on subtidal rocky reefs.
Distribution
Finger Sponges are found southwards from Western Australia to the central New South Wales coast.
Distribution data sourced from the Atlas of Living Australia
Other behaviours and adaptations
Sponges are sessile (unable to move around) and they attach themselves to rocks using a 'holdfast'. This is a specialised tissue for clinging onto rocks that looks a little like the roots of a plant. During storms sponges can be dislodged and washed up on beaches where they are commonly found.
