Haplosclerida Collection

Portrait of Blacktip grouper (Epinephelus fasciatus) resting in Barrel sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) Mabul Island, Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia. Sulawesi Sea

Giant barrel sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) releases a large cloud of gametes as it spawns on a coral reef, while a Threadfin hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys aprinus) looks

Endemic sponge (Lubomirskia baicalensis) encrusting rocks and branches on the lake floor, Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia. July

Ribbon sweetlips (Plectorhinchus polytaenia) at Giant barrel sponge (Xestospongia muta) Tulamben, North coast, Bali, Indonesia. Lesser Sunda Islands

Pennant coralfish (Heniochus acuminatus) at Giant barrel sponge (Xestospongia muta) Bali tropical reef community, Tulamben, North coast, Bali, Indonesia. Lesser Sunda Islands

Young Stone sculpin (Paracottus knerii), on endemic sponge (Lubomirskia baicalensis), Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia

Aggregation of tiny isopods (Santia sp. ) living on the surface of a Blue sponge (Haliclona sp)
Aggregation of tiny isopods (Santia sp.) living on the surface of a Blue sponge (Haliclona sp.), there are two colour varieties here, possibly different species

Female Tassled wobbegong shark (Eucrossorhinus dasypogon) rests alongside stand of Barrel sponges (Xestospongia testudinaria) Blue Magic, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia

Giant barrel sponge (Xestospongia muta) within coral reef. Utila Island, Honduras. Caribbean Sea

Suensons brittle star (Ophiothrix suensonii) on Azure vase sponge (Callyspongia plicifera), St. Vincent, Caribbean

UW INDO 1995 30
Barrel Sponge - with sun in background, Pohon Miring dive site, Banda Besar Island, Banda Islands, Indonesia, Banda Sea Barrel Sponge - with sun in background, Pohon Miring dive site

Detail of an encrusting sponge growing on a reef in Indonesia
Detail of an encrusting sponge growing on a reef in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. This tropical region in Indonesia is known for its spectacular coral reefs and high marine biodiversity

Top view of a pnk barrel sponge against the cyan reef bottom, Indonesia
Top view of a pnk barrel sponge looking like a saucer against the cyan reef bottom, Cenderawasih Bay, West Papua, Indonesia

The Salvador Dali sponge with intricate swirling surface pattern, Indonesia
A diver looks on at the Salvador Dali sponge (Petrosia lignosa) which only grows with this intricate swirling surface pattern in Gorontalo waters, Sulawesi, Indonesia

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"Haplosclerida: A Fascinating World of Sponges and Marine Life" Dive into the mesmerizing world of Haplosclerida, a diverse order of sponges that play host to an array of marine creatures. In this captivating portrait, a Blacktip grouper finds solace as it rests within the protective embrace of a Barrel sponge. Witness the breathtaking spectacle as a Giant barrel sponge releases a cloud of gametes, contributing to the cycle of life in the underwater realm. Endemic sponge species like Lubomirskia baicalensis encrust rocks and branches on lake floors, creating an enchanting tapestry beneath tranquil waters. Marvel at nature's harmony as Ribbon sweetlips gracefully swim amidst the vibrant hues of Xestospongia muta, seeking refuge in its massive structure. Pennant coralfish also seek shelter within these giant sponges, forming symbiotic relationships that sustain their existence. Delve deeper into this hidden world and discover unlikely companionships; observe how tiny isopods thrive on the surface of Blue sponges like Haliclona sp. , showcasing nature's ability to foster coexistence among diverse species. Intrigue awaits as you encounter a female Tassled wobbegong shark resting alongside towering Barrel sponges. These majestic creatures find comfort amidst these natural formations while adding another layer to this fascinating ecosystem. Explore Caribbean reefs where Giant barrel sponges stand tall against azure waters surrounding Utila Island in Honduras. These magnificent structures provide shelter for countless marine organisms and contribute to maintaining coral reef health. Admire Suensons brittle star perched delicately upon an Azure vase sponge off St. Vincent's coast in the Caribbean Sea—a testament to nature's intricate beauty found even in its smallest inhabitants. Finally, journey across oceans to Indonesia where you'll encounter Salvador Dali sponges with their swirling surface patterns resembling works by the renowned artist.