Ectyonopsis pluridentata


Ectyonopsis pluridentata, the fused branch sponge, is a species of demosponge from South Africa.

Description

The fused branch sponge is made up of a thick cluster of fused branches arising from an indistinct base. It grows up to long and wide. It is beige to rusty brown in colour. The surface is rough and is covered in small circular ostia. While it is firm and compressible, it also breaks easily.
It is a suspension and a filter feeder.

Distribution and habitat

This species is endemic to South Africa. It is found on the South and West coasts of the country, where it lives at depths of.