Sarcodictyonidae
Sarcodictyonidae is a family of marine sponges belonging to the order Poecilosclerida. These sponges are characterized by their intricate skeletal structures, which are composed of siliceous spicules arranged in a network-like pattern. Their distinctive morphology has earned them the common name “net-sponges” or “reticulate sponges”.
Characteristics
Sarcodictyonidae sponges are typically small to medium in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. They exhibit a variety of shapes, including encrusting, massive, and branching forms. The defining feature of this family is their reticulate skeleton, which consists of a dense meshwork of spicules that provides structural support and protection. Spicules can be either monaxon (having one axis) or tetraxon (having four axes), and they often have a distinctive spiny or rough surface.
Environments
Sarcodictyonidae sponges are found in a variety of marine environments, including shallow coastal waters, reefs, and deeper oceanic regions. They are often associated with rocky substrates, but they can also be found on soft sediments and other surfaces. Some species are known to exhibit a preference for specific types of habitats, such as coral reefs or kelp forests.
References
For further information on Sarcodictyonidae, please consult the following resources: