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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Elephant Ear Sponge

In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean

Unmistakable when it spreads its broad folds resembling a giant ear, the Elephant Ear Sponge colonises rocky and coralligenous areas, where it continuously filters water. Its spectacular outline also provides shelter for many small seabed inhabitants.

Habitat de Elephant Ear Sponge Habitat
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Profondeur de Elephant Ear Sponge Depth
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Groupe biologique de Elephant Ear Sponge Group
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Rôle écologique de Elephant Ear Sponge Role
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WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

This large sponge varies in shape, often forming a fan, cup or thick sheet. Its colour is generally dark brown to dark grey. Its surface is flexible but strong, with numerous small openings allowing water circulation. The outlet openings (oscula) are visible on the upper face or in the most exposed areas.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It grows on hard substrates, mainly rocky seabeds and coralligenous areas. It occurs at different depths in generally well-oxygenated water containing little sediment.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Like all sponges, it feeds by filtering seawater. Microscopic particles, such as bacteria and organic debris, are captured as water circulates through its body. Water is then expelled through the oscula. This mechanism contributes to recycling matter in the marine ecosystem.

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