Corticium candelabrum

Corticium candelabrum is a sponge species found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, including regions like the Canary Islands, the Azores, and the Iberian Peninsula. It thrives in the shallow sublittoral zone, often in shaded areas such as under overhangs, on vertical walls, and within caves, at depths reaching up to 20 meters. Divers can identify this sponge by its thin encrusting form or small, solid cushions that can grow 10 to 15 cm across and 2 to 3 cm high. Its surface is smooth, shiny, and covered by a translucent envelope, with colors ranging from pale to mid-brown, sometimes with a reddish tinge. The sponge feeds by filtering small particles from the water, including bacteria, unicellular algae, and organic debris. Its feeding mechanism involves drawing water through small pores and expelling it through slightly raised oscula. Corticium candelabrum is hermaphroditic, with gametes maturing at different times to prevent self-fertilization. Sperm released into the water can fertilize eggs in another sponge, with larvae eventually settling on a substrate to grow into new sponges. While observing this sponge, divers might notice the sea slug Berthella ocellata feeding on it. The sponge is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated for conservation status by the IUCN.