Marine Life › Sponges & Seaweeds
Chelonaplysilla violacea was originally reported from Australia and has since been recorded on both sides of the Pacific Ocean, including Australia and Tasmania.
Although these populations are currently recognised as a single species, there is some uncertainty about whether they may actually represent several closely related species. Further research into their physical characteristics is needed to determine whether all these records belong to the same species.
At a glance
Chelonaplysilla violacea is a soft, encrusting sponge, typically reddish-mauve to deep purple in colour. It grows as thin, spreading patches or sheets across rocks and other hard surfaces, sometimes forming small upright lobes or folds.
One of its most distinctive features is a fine, whitish, net-like pattern covering the darker surface. This pattern is formed by tiny grains of sand and fragments of sponge material embedded in its outer layer.
Although the surface may appear smooth at first glance, closer inspection reveals numerous small, blunt, cone-shaped bumps, some with tough fibres protruding from their tips. Small openings, known as oscules, are scattered across the surface and may be slightly raised.
The sponge has a soft, flexible texture and can be easily compressed or torn. Its combination of purple colouration, fine surface pattern and small raised bumps provides useful features for identification.
Based on Bergquist (1996), The Marine Fauna of New Zealand: Porifera: Demospongiae, pages 21–22 Vlaams Instituut voor de Zee
Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.
From Our Tasmania · https://ourtasmania.au/species-guide/view-species/chelonaplysilla-violacea/