Astrocladus
Astrocladus is a genus of marine sponges in the family Astrophoridae. It is characterized by its unique branching structure and the presence of spicules called “asters” which are star-shaped and have numerous rays. The genus was first described by German zoologist Franz Edmund Schulze in 1880.
Common Names
Astrocladus does not have common names widely used in English, though they are sometimes referred to as "star-spicule sponges" due to the distinct spicules that characterize them.
Characteristics
Astrocladus sponges are generally characterized by:
- Branching structure: They typically form branching colonies with intricate patterns.
- Asters: The defining feature of Astrocladus is the presence of asters, which are star-shaped spicules with multiple rays. These asters can be quite large and have a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the species.
- Color: The color of Astrocladus sponges can vary depending on the species, ranging from brown and grey to yellow and orange.
Environments
Astrocladus sponges are found in marine environments, typically in shallow to deep waters. They are often found attached to rocks, coral reefs, and other hard substrates. The specific habitat preferences of each species vary, but they generally prefer environments with strong currents and sufficient food sources.
References
For more information on Astrocladus and their taxonomic classification, you can consult the following resources: