This Sponge is completely non-photosynthetic and receives its energy by capturing fine phyto and zooplankton, coral snow and small edible particles which may be found in mature aquariums. Occasionally stirring the sand may release some food items which the sponge may capture- most food utilized is 0.1-1.5 micrometers (typically 0.5 μm or smaller). Most specimens are collected from the Caribbean. We recommend this animal only for expert aquarists who can provide the frequent feedings it demands.

Moderate to strong water flow is essential over all parts of the sponge. Lateral flow should be used, with the sponge’s oscula facing down-wind; improper placement will cause closure of the oscula. Never use wave or surge action, or point-source powerheads, which may damage the animal’s delicate structure. Water flow will deliver food to the sponge and remove wastes, and also help to clear nuisance algae, cyanobacteria and debris. Lower lighting or shade should be used to discourage algae overgrowth; as well, for some species bright light is actually damaging. Sponge should never be exposed to air, as it will become trapped within the animal and cause starvation and necrosis. It should be transferred while underwater. If damage from trapped gasses affects the animal the damaged area should be cut away. Poor water quality is also not tolerated by sponges. It should be inspected for predatory nudibranch which may feed on it.

Many sponges are bright colors, which serves as a warning to predators that they may contain toxins. The toxin may damage other sessile animals if touched, or be released into the water if the sponge is dead or dying. Demosponges such as this are comprised of silica spicules which may be extremely irritating if touched; wearing gloves or only handling the substrate they are attached to is recommended. Sponges make excellent tank-mates with other filter-feeding creatures such as sun, flowerpot, carnation and chili corals, gorgonians, tunicates, clams and oysters which would also benefit from added food.

This sponge grows like a tall dessert succulent, or a mighty tree with many branches. It has a deep orange to red coloration which adds to its impressive appearance.

• Difficulty: Advanced
• Growth Speed: Slow
• Lighting: Medium - High
• Average Placement: Middle
• Water Flow: Medium - High
• Temperament: Peaceful

FREE SHIPPING OVER $99.00!*

$9.95 FLAT RATE FOR LESS THAN $99.00 - CANADA AND LOWER 48 US WIDE!

*EXCEPTIONS:

• Light Bulbs over 36" are shipped at a flat rate of $9.95. No quantity Limit. You can ship one or one hundred bulbs for the same price (valid for both Canada and the US).
• Any heavy or bulky items will incur a 100% charge of the actual shipping cost (valid for both Canada and the US). Heavy bulky items include (but are not limited to): salt, dry rock, sand, chillers, sumps, aquariums, stands, and some filter media.
• Frozen or perishable food can only be shipped via UPS Express. We have discounted the express shipping of these items to help the hobbyist out.
• Livestock is covered by a different shipping policy. To view the policy and further information regarding shipping livestock, click here.

General Notes:

• We always make our best effort to ship your order via the carrier chosen during the check-out process; however, for some multi-piece shipments and/or remote destinations, we must reserve the right to use another carrier at our discretion (and without prior notice). If you require notice of any changes made to the carrier, please mention it in the special instructions during check-out.
• Upon request, we will do our best to ship your dry goods as per your specifications (courier, airlines, on your account, etc.).
• Quoted rates are the carriers live discounted shipping rates after adjusting for any/all shipping promotions.

Aquarium Equipment Returns

• All returns and/or exchanges must be made within 14 days of receipt of product.
• Products may only be returned unused, and in original unopened packaging.
• J&L Aquatics reserves the right to charge a non-refundable 20% restocking charge for any/all returned merchandise (excluding exchanges).
• J&L Aquatics will not be responsible for return shipping charges. Original shipping charges are non-refundable. If the item was originally shipped under our free shipping policy, the cost of doing so will be removed from the credit. Before returning/exchanging any goods, we require that you authorize your return with J&L Aquatics. Any items returned without our authorization will be declined.
• In the event that your order is damaged by the carrier, a claim will be filed with the carrier company. Upon approval of the claim by the carrier, your original order will be re-shipped to you at no additional cost. If you wish to return the damaged goods for a refund or credit, the 20% restocking charge will be applied. J&L Aquatics will not be held responsible for any/all shipping delays that may occur from time to time.
• Special order & sale items are not returnable under any circumstances.
• Dry Good Order cancellations may also be subject to a 20% restocking charge.
• Orders that are returned or refunded when using Affirm or similar financing are subject to a 5% service charge of the original order amount including tax.