Deep water Iridescent Glassy Sponges on Gorgonian stems, with Red Rope Sponges. Behind is a drooping Gorgonian.
 South Coast, Grand Cayman Island  - Depth 100 feet or 30 meters
 

 

 

 

 

 

*  This was one of the most beautiful underwater scenes we encountered on the walls off  South Coast, Grand Cayman Island.  The most noticeable sponge is the Deep Water Iridescent Sponge (Callyspongia plicifera), here exhibiting the pale color we have begun to associate with the deeper South Coast.  Red Rope Sponges (Haliclona rubiginosa) are visible, and in the background is a drooping Gorgonian we have been unable to identify.  The sponge group appears to be attached to an old gorgonian stem encrusted with Fire Coral, this latter probably (Millepora alcicornis). South Coast, Grand Cayman Island  - Depth 100 feet or 30 meters