A Demosponge collected in the Antarctic

Portion of a demosponge (probably Calyx sp.) collected off Trinity Island (Antarctic Peninsula) at 210 meters depth. Sponges provide a convenient perch for many animals (such as feather and brittle stars) which allows these commensal associates to reach higher into the water column to catch planktonic prey. The holes within this demosponge can also be used as a nursery for vulnerable baby cidaroid pencil-spine urchins (not shown). Greenpeace is conducting scientific research and documenting the Antarctic’s unique wildlife, to strengthen the proposal to create the largest protected area on the planet, an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.