Carnivorous Sponges [Cladorhizidae]

Description

Cladorhizidae, or carnivorous sponges, represent a remarkable evolutionary adaptation within the sponge lineage. Unlike most other sponges that filter feed, members of this family have adapted to a carnivorous lifestyle, capturing small crustaceans and other tiny organisms with their spicule-covered filaments. These sponges are mostly found in deep-sea environments, where traditional sponge feeding strategies are less effective due to the scarcity of food particles. Their presence highlights the diverse feeding strategies that have evolved in marine invertebrates.