Stony Sponges [Pachastrellidae]

Description

Pachastrellidae, or stony sponges, are characterized by their hard, often massive and irregular forms. They possess triaenes among their spicules, which are skeletal elements unique to certain sponges. These sponges are found in a range of marine environments from shallow waters to the deep sea. Members of this family are known for their varied colors and are important inhabitants of benthic ecosystems, contributing to the structural complexity of these communities.