Deep-sea Glass Sponge [Hyalascus vitreus]
Description
Hyalascus vitreus, commonly known as the Deep-sea Glass Sponge, is a species of deep-sea glass sponges in the family Rossellidae. It is found in deep-sea environments, typically at depths of over 1000 meters. This species is characterized by its glass-like skeleton and translucent body. The species' body is composed of siliceous spicules, which gives it a delicate, glass-like appearance. This sponge is sessile, attaching itself to the sea floor and filtering out tiny particles from the water for nutrients.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Lyssacinosida
Lyssacinosida
|
| Family |
Euplectellidae
Euplectellidae
|
| Genus |
Hyalascus
Hyalascus
|