The tree sponge (Echinoclathria dichotoma) is a species of demosponge.[1] It is known from the west coast of South Africa to Cape Agulhas. It is endemic to this region.[1]
The tree sponge may grow to 150 mm (5.9 in) in height. It is a bright red to dirty orange sponge which grows upright and branches like a tree.[1][2] The surface texture is smooth and the branch tips are rounded.[1] Its oscula are small (<1 mm (0.039 in) and inconspicuous.[1][2] The surface may be covered in a slimy mucus.[2]
This sponge is found on the south and west coasts of South Africa where it lives on rocky reefs subtidally to 69 m (226 ft).[2][3]
This sponge is often colonised by a white zoanthid, Parazoanthus sp.[4]
The tree sponge (Echinoclathria dichotoma) is a species of demosponge. It is known from the west coast of South Africa to Cape Agulhas. It is endemic to this region.
