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Abyssocladia Oxyasters
''Abyssocladia'' is a genus of the family Cladorhizidae, a family of carnivorous sponges. It is made up of at least 39 species found in oceans all over the world. Description This genus is characterized by its unique teeth-like structures called abyssochelae, although they are not present in every species. Types of microscleres could also include cleistochelae, arcute chelae, and/or sigmacistras. Their general morphology can be divided into two groups. The first group has a long peduncle and round top. The second group is feather-like with a shorter peduncle. Both groups have straight spicules and are covered in a layer of soft tissue with sticky microstrongyles protruding perpendicularly from the body, used to capture prey. Sizes of these organisms can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters tall and just a few millimeters wide. Their thin skeleton and soft tissue can make these sponges very fragile. Feeding Most carnivorous sponges lack an aquiferous system, meani ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
Cladorhizidae
Cladorhizidae is a family of carnivorous demosponges found in deep-sea environments worldwide. These sponges are known for their unique feeding structures and predatory behavior, as they capture and consume small animals such as crustaceans. Description The Cladorhizidae family is characterized by its branched and bushy growth form, which can reach up to in length. The body is composed of a skeleton made of spicules, which provide structural support and defense against predators. The sponge's feeding structures are modified spicules, which can be long and pointed, or branched and club-shaped. One species is also bioluminescent. Habitat and distribution Cladorhizidae sponges are typically found on oceanic ridges and seamount systems, where they attach to the seafloor and extend their feeding structures into the water column to capture passing prey. Due to their deep-sea habitat, little is known about the ecology and behavior of these sponges. Discovery Cladorhizidae spon ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |