Discodermia sp. 1

Diaz, Maria Cristina, Nuttall, Marissa, Pomponi, Shirley A., Ruetzler, Klaus, Klontz, Sarah, Adams, Christi, Hickerson, Emma L. & Schmahl, G. P., 2023, An annotated and illustrated identification guide to common mesophotic reef sponges (Porifera, Demospongiae, Hexactinellida, and Homoscleromorpha) inhabiting Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary and vicinities, ZooKeys 1161, pp. 1-68 : 1

Discodermia sp. 1

Fig. 43

Diagnostic features.

Massive columnar cluster, flattened tops of columns with one apical oscule on each. Smooth to rugose surface. Tan color with pale brown tops. Columns 2-3 cm wide and 10-15 cm tall.

Similar species.

The image of a Discodermia dissoluta specimen ( van Soest et al. 2014) shows a columnar growth form for the species. Spicule preparations would be necessary to determine the species identity of this sponge.

Distribution and abundance.

The genus Discodermia is common in deep waters at the tropical western Atlantic. Discodermia dissoluta is the most widespread distributed species of the genus in the region from the GOM to Brazil. At FGBNMS, rare to low (1-10) abundance at two sites.

Ecology.

Lower mesophotic reefs.

Identification.

KR, CA, SWK, MCD.

Reference.

van Soest et al. 2014.

Figures

Figure 43. In-situ photograph of Discodermia sp. 1, 107 m deep. Photo code SP 05.