Finger Sponge

Scientific name: Holopsamma laminaefavosa
  • Updated
    18/12/20
  • Read time
    2 minutes
Holopsamma laminaefavosa Click to enlarge image
Finger Sponge, Holopsamma laminaefavosa Image: Dr Isobel Bennett
© Australian Museum

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Holopsamma
    Species
    laminaefavosa
    Family
    Microcionidae
    Order
    Poecilosclerida
    Subclass
    Ceractinomorpha
    Class
    Demospongiae
    Phylum
    Porifera
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    50 cm

Introduction

This sponge is recognised by its hand shape or finger-like projections.

Identification

The Finger Sponge's colour varies from dull orange to brown, grey and cream. Its surface is covered in large holes giving it a honeycomb appearance.

Habitat

Finger Sponges live in coastal waters and on subtidal rocky reefs.

Distribution

Finger Sponges are found southwards from Western Australia to the central New South Wales coast.

Other behaviours and adaptations

Sponges are sessile (unable to move around) and they attach themselves to rocks using a 'holdfast'. This is a specialised tissue for clinging onto rocks that looks a little like the roots of a plant. During storms sponges can be dislodged and washed up on beaches where they are commonly found.