Kuekenthal's Ball Sponge

Cinachyrella kuekenthali

Kuekenthal's Ball Sponge is a sponge species found primarily in the Western Atlantic. It resides in tropical waters, typically at depths ranging from 4 to 100 meters. This sponge is sessile, often inhabiting medium-energy reef environments and deep hard bottoms. Divers can identify this species by its distinct morphology, which varies between globular, almost spherical, and erect egg-shaped forms. The apex of the sponge is usually flattened or slightly depressed, with numerous round cup-like depressions, known as porocalices, concentrated in this area. The surface is bristly due to the protruding tips of radiated spicules. Externally, it exhibits colors ranging from orange and yellow-orange to brownish orange, while the interior is a rich yellow. Algae or cyanobacteria may cause the sponge to appear brown. It typically measures between 15 to 20 cm in width and has an elastic but firm consistency with few oscules.