Interactions with Humans

Human and porifera
When side by side
Don't quite appear
To naturally coincide

But when the most advanced species
Interacts with the lowest
The results are rather interesting
When it comes to sponge harvest

Although this topic does not pertain at all to the fossil history of porifera, it is imperative that there be information about the commercial history of porifera. Therefore, we will devote this page to descriptions of how humans have implemented sponges.

In the ancient world, the uses of sponges were readily recognized and applied by various cultures. In Greece, sponges were used for painting and crafts. In Rome, a sponge on a stick sufficed as a primitive toilet paper. Also, in Egypt, sponges were gathered for bathing and cleansing.

However, sponges now have various commercial uses. Six species, all belonging to the demosponges, are still used as commercial sponges. They are noted for their flexibility, soft texture, and strength. Such sponges are harvested, though now in deficient amounts, in the Mediterranean Sea(where there is an extensive history with humans), the Red Sea, and West Indian waters. Now, it is rare to use authentic sponges for bathing purposes. However, modern, synthetic replicas of porifera closely resemble the other types of sponges. Their dimensions are always different, of course.

Surprisingly, it is not the sponge itself, but sponge skeletons that are utilized as commercial sponges. Instead, divers harvest sponges that have died, and their remains are subjected to an extensive process. After their collection by divers, they are transported in baskets to nearby factories. The sponges are washed, and all organisms are extracted. Next, bleaching occurs to create a uniform color. For aesthetic appeal, the sponges are dyed in a myriad of colors. Once they are treated, they are ready for use in bath tub and sink.

In more modern times, however, the most frequent application of porifera would be in science. Hundreds of scientists around the world, such as marine biologists, have been studying sponges and porifera for the past two centuries. Their collaboration and endeavors have enabled the creation for this page, and we would like to thank all porifera scientists for their countless contributions.