HRAP Online Encyclopedia

Sponges

Sponges belong to the phylum Porifera, which translates from Latin as “pore bearer.” Sponges were given this name because they are colonial animals with pores throughout their bodies. With these pores, sponges are able to filter water in and out of their bodies. Unlike certain sponge species that take up more 3D space in the water, the encrusting sponges at Haystack Rock lay flat on rocks. These sponges are an essential part of Haystack Rock’s tide pool ecosystem because they provide food for a fan-favorite organism: nudibranchs!