Ircinia ramosa

Ircinia ramosa is a sponge species belonging to the family Irciniidae. It is predominantly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-West Pacific region. Divers can encounter this sponge at depths ranging from 16 to 67 meters, with most occurrences recorded at depths shallower than 40 meters. As a sessile organism, Ircinia ramosa remains attached to substrates in its environment, which may include various reef structures. This species is a filter-feeder, playing a role in the ecosystem by filtering plankton and other small particles from the water. Ircinia ramosa is hermaphroditic, meaning it possesses both male and female reproductive organs. Its life cycle includes a free-swimming larval stage known as the parenchymella, which eventually settles on a suitable substrate to grow into a mature sponge. While diving, encountering Ircinia ramosa can be a subtle experience, as it blends into the reef environment. It does not pose any known threat to humans.