Encrusting Sponge

Dendrilla cactos

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

This encrusting to branch forming sponge is found in both shallow and deep water reefs locally and from time to time is washed up along the beach

Identification

This sponge has a pink colouration often encrusting over algae species and rocks that gives it a spikey like appearance

Size

Can grow to branches of around 30cm

Habitat

Can be found around reef and jetty areas out to a depth of around 50m

Distribution

Indo-Pacific area including around Australia

Gallery

Select any photo or video to view it large with its details and credits.

Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (3)

Goudie, L., 2011, Sponge, Dendrilla cactos, in Taxonomic Toolkit for marine life of Port Phillip Bay, Museum Victoria (accessed 2022-06-15 09:20:16)
The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2022-06-15 09:21:15)
World Porifera Database. Dendrilla cactos (Selenka, 1867). Accessed through: World Register of Marine Species (accessed 2022-06-15 09:39:00)

Quick Facts

Common name: Encrusting Sponge
Scientific name: Dendrilla cactos (Selenka, 1867)
Family: Darwinellidae
Category: Sea Life › Sponges & Seaweeds
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Tags

encrusting sponges beachcombing

Information Website

Video & Media

Museums Victoria Collections

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Header image: CC BY-SA 4.0 © wildroo

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.