Parasphaerascleridae

Common Names

Members of the Parasphaerascleridae family are often referred to as "parasphaerasclerid sponges" due to their unique spicule structure. However, they do not have other widely used common names.

Characteristics

Parasphaerasclerid sponges are characterized by the following features:

• Siliceous Spicules: The skeletal framework of these sponges is composed of siliceous (glass-like) spicules. These spicules are often arranged in a complex network, forming a three-dimensional structure.
• Multiaxial Spicules: A defining feature of Parasphaerascleridae is the presence of spicules with multiple axes, meaning they have more than one main axis of growth. These multiaxial spicules can take various forms, including tetraxons, triaxons, and polyaxons.
• Spicule Morphology: The shape and size of the spicules vary depending on the species, but they often exhibit intricate and complex morphologies. Some spicules are characterized by their spiny or knobby surfaces, while others are smooth and cylindrical.
• Body Forms: Parasphaerasclerid sponges exhibit a wide range of body forms, from encrusting and massive to branching and erect. They can also be found as thin sheets or as irregular lumps.

Environments

Parasphaerasclerid sponges are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

• Shallow Waters: They can be found in shallow, coastal waters, often attached to rocks, corals, or other substrates.
• Deep Waters: Some species inhabit deeper waters, down to hundreds or even thousands of meters below the surface.
• Tropical and Temperate Regions: These sponges are found in both tropical and temperate regions, ranging from the warm waters of the tropics to the cooler waters of higher latitudes.

References

For further information and reliable references on Parasphaerascleridae, please consult these resources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• PubMed (National Center for Biotechnology Information)
• ResearchGate (Academic Social Network)