Purple-encrusting sponges
Introduction
Purple-encrusting sponges are probably the easiest sponges to see on Sydney's rocky shores.
Identification
Always a light purple colour, these sponges are covered in small crater-like holes over their surface.
![Haliclona](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Haliclona.width-1600.bdc764d.jpg)
Purple-encrusting sponges
Image: Dr Isobel Bennett© Australian Museum
Habitat
Purple-encrusting sponges live on intertidal rocky shores.
Distribution
Purple-encrusting sponges are found in waters around Australia.
Other behaviours and adaptations
Purple-encrusting sponges can be found near the low-tide mark attached to rock surfaces in small, irregular-shaped patches. They are the only sponges common in rock pools exposed to full sunlight.