A deep-water Iridescent Glassy Sponge provides refuge to a small resident Goby, probably
(Gobiosoma
evelynae). |
* In deeper Caribbean waters (90 t0 180 feet or 27 to 55 meters) the
Iridescent Glassy Sponge (Callyspongia plicifera) often serves as
a refuge to a small Goby, probably (Gobiosoma
evelynae). At these greater depths, the sponges can exhibit an intensified degree of
bluish fluorescence. The
appearance of such a sponge is very striking, and makes worthwhile the short duration
of the dive necessary when not using mixed gasses.
In the background can faintly be seen a Red Rope Sponges (Haliclona rubiginosa) , and in the right foreground are the arms of a Sea Feather (Pseudopterogorgia sp.) with polyps expanded. North Wall, Grand Cayman Island - Depth 165 feet or 50 meters |