Shape-shifters on Caribbean Coral Reefs
Corals and sponges create the vibrant and varied panoramas of Caribbean reefs. It is, however, the versatility and services of sponge organisms at the cellular level that hold the secret of sponges. Dr Anjani Ganase explains the marvellous science of sponges. As abundant as corals on Caribbean reefs are marine sponges. Snorkelers and divers often mistake them for corals because of their high prevalence on coral reefs; they add structure to the reefscape and stand out from the background in bright purple, orange, yellow and blue against the dominant brown colouration of Caribbean corals. Marine sponges may appear to compete with corals for space and attention but they are intimately dependent on them for the infrastructure to settle and grow. Marine sponges (Phylum Porifera) are relatively simple animals that lack a digestive tract and a nervous system. Sponges are impressive filter feeders, where some species can pump thousands of litres of water within ...