Conservation of Reef-Building Sponges: Their Ecological Importance and Threats

Sponges that provide structure for many organisms are called…

Commensals

Sponges that provide structure for many organisms are called “reef-building” or “coral reef” sponges. These sponges play a crucial role in providing foundation and shelter for a diverse range of marine organisms including fish, sea urchins, clams, and many others. Reef-building sponges are usually large and slow-growing, and they can take many decades or even centuries to reach their full size. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in areas where there is high water flow and abundant sunlight. Despite their ecological importance, reef-building sponges are facing numerous threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing, which highlight the need for their conservation and protection.

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