Crumpled Duster Sponge

Overview

The Crumpled Duster Sponge (Axinella damicornis) is a distinctive, bright yellow marine sponge often found in the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the North Atlantic. It is recognized for its compact, branching form and a unique surface texture that appears as if it has been dusted with fine yellow particles.

Appearance

This sponge typically grows as an erect, squat structure with a short stalk. Its branches are compressed and often fuse together, creating variable, irregular shapes that can resemble small fans or crumpled leaves. The surface has a velvety, "mealy" texture caused by projecting skeletal spicules. While generally bright yellow, the margins may sometimes verge on a deeper orange. Small oscules are located at the tips of the branches, often partially surrounded by a small, triangular flap of tissue when the sponge is alive.

Distribution & habitat

Axinella damicornis is commonly found in the Mediterranean and occurs in the Northeast Atlantic, including the British Isles and the coast of Brittany. It prefers hard substrates and is frequently encountered on sloping rock surfaces, cliff faces, and within shaded overhangs or caves. While it can be found in shallow sublittoral zones, it is also well-adapted to deeper, mesophotic environments.

Biology & behavior

As a suspension feeder, this sponge filters plankton from the surrounding water. It is known to maintain a firm consistency and does not noticeably contract when removed from the water. It is sometimes found in association with the encrusting yellow anemone Parazoanthus axinellae, which may grow upon its surface without causing apparent harm to the sponge.