Phylum: Porifera

Class: Demospongiae

Order: Poecilosclerida

Family: Esperiopsidae

Scientific name: Amphilectus fucorum

 

Norwegian: -

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Distribution: This sponge can be found as far north as Troms. It prefers shallow waters, but otherwise tolerates a wide range of exposures. It does not mind strong tidal currents.

Characteristics: The shape is highly variable. It can produce thin sheets overgrowing any stationary object on the bottom. It may produce lobes or branches or take a cushioned form. It is usually between 2 and 15 cm thick. The color is often vivid yellow or orange. On the not so common deeper locations, with limited light exposure the color is usually pale yellow or even grey.

All pictures:

(Børsabergan - The Trondheim fjord / 6 meters / 2.02.2002)