Melophlus sarasinorum

Melophlus sarasinorum is a sponge belonging to the family Geodiidae and order Tetractinellida. It is found in the Indo-West Pacific region, inhabiting shallow tropical waters. This species is sessile, meaning it remains attached to a substrate and does not move. The sponge is a filter-feeder, obtaining its nutrients by filtering water to extract plankton and other small particles. The life cycle of Melophlus sarasinorum involves a free-swimming larval stage known as parenchymella. After this stage, the larvae settle on a substrate and develop into adult sponges. Members of the class Demospongiae, to which this species belongs, are hermaphroditic, meaning they possess both male and female reproductive organs. Divers encountering Melophlus sarasinorum will find it harmless, as it poses no threat to humans. Its conservation status has not been evaluated by the IUCN, and it is not listed under CITES or CMS. Observations of this species can be made at various dive sites, where it contributes to the biodiversity of coral and sponge gardens.