Giant Barrel Sponge #51507

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8" x 7" x 8"

The Giant Barrel Sponge, known scientifically as Xestospongia muta, is a marine species found in the Atlantic Ocean’s tropical areas.

It is one of the most commonly found sponges on the Coral reefs in the Caribbean region. It is also referred to as the “Redwood of the Sea” because of its large size and long life span.

Known to be one the largest species of sponge, Giant Barrel sponges can grow up to several meters in diameter. The smallest individual sponges observed are about one centimeter in size, while the largest ones can reach up to 2 meters in diameter.

Due to the presence of Cyanobacteria symbionts, its color ranges from salmon pink to purple. The most common colors are brown, reddish-brown, grey, and purple.

It tends to be darker in color in the shallow waters and lighter at greater depths. Giant Barrel sponges also undergo periodic bleaching but recover their original color over time.

information provided by americanoceans.org