Mysterious Deep-Sea Sponges Consuming Meat in the Oceans' Depths
In the depths of Monterey Bay, off the coast of California, a fascinating predator has been discovered - the harp sponge (Chondrocladia lyra). This deep-sea creature, reminiscent of a candelabra, was first spotted in 2000 by a team from the Monterey Bay Research Aquarium Institute. Using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), they ventured nearly 2 miles below the ocean's surface, uncovering a world previously unseen.
The harp sponge, much like the carnivorous Venus flytrap and sundew plants, captures its prey actively. It ensnares small living organisms drifting by in deep-sea currents using hook-like projections called spicules. Once trapped, the prey is enveloped in a thin membrane, initiating the digestion process.
Despite exploring only 1% of Monterey Bay, it remains one of the most well-studied deep-sea regions on Earth. The harp sponge's discovery suggests that many undiscovered species may inhabit these waters.
In October 2023, research about the life cycle and reproductive methods of C. lyra was published in the journal Invertebrate Biology. However, details about its reproduction and full life cycle remain scarce. It is known that C. lyra is one of many newly described deep-sea sponge species, indicating ongoing research to expand our understanding of its biology.
The harp sponge poses no threat to humans due to its method of capturing prey and its habitat being nearly 2 miles underwater. Its adaptations are specifically designed for capturing prey much smaller than a human, making any risk to people virtually nonexistent. In the rare event of human contact, the sponge's relatively weak grip compared to larger marine predators would likely allow a person to break free.
The harp sponge anchors itself to soft, muddy sediments on the ocean floor using root-like structures called rhizoids. It has been observed with as few as two branches, or vanes, but specimens with up to six vanes have also been discovered, with the largest recorded at approximately 14 inches tall.
Lonny Lundsten, an invertebrate biologist at the institute, expressed astonishment upon observing the harp sponge, stating, "No one had ever seen this animal with their own eyes before." Lundsten, who has helped identify four new species since the discovery of the harp sponge, notes that the sponge transfers sperm in condensed packages called spermatophores, unlike most sponges that release free-swimming sperm.
The harp sponge contrasts sharply with most sponges, which typically filter-feed on microscopic particles in the water. However, the harp sponge's unique structure allows it to capture prey effectively; its branching limbs are covered with Velcro-like barbed hooks that ensnare tiny crustaceans as they are swept into its branches by deep-sea currents.
As research continues, the mysteries of the harp sponge and its deep-sea home in Monterey Bay are sure to unfold, offering a glimpse into the wonders that lie beneath the ocean's surface.
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