New Discoveries:

A Rediscription of Spongosorites suberitoides

Hermit crab sponges, while demonstrating similar characteristics, have also demonstrated rather diverse qualities. As new studies and published material are compiled, perception of sponge classification may be altered, further expanding the complex characteristics of these porifera. By clarifying these perplexities, further research may interpret more fascinating qualities of the porifera.

Previously, Spongosorites suberitoides, a halichondrid (Demospongiae), had been indistinguishable between its various habitats. This hermit-crab sponge, which was located in the Gulf of Mexico, was identified with specimens from North Carolina and Venezuela. However, specific attributes have rendered the sponges of Dog Island, Florida slightly different from its counterparts.

Differentiations observed between the various types of Spongosorites suberitoides include:

• Spicules- Within the Gulf of Mexico species, the spicules possess a more considerable length and breadth

• Skeletons- The structure of the Gulf of Mexico species is far more cavernous. Its compaction also differs. Essentially, the layout of the skeleton remains consistent throughout the three divisions of Spongosorites suberitoides.

• Reproduction- While all species utilized gemmules for reproduction, the gemmules were considerably smaller in the Gulf of Mexico species. The arrangement of these gemmules was actually systematic, creating a "fish scale" pattern.

• Habitat- The Gulf of Mexico species inhabited waters slightly more shallow in depth than the others.

However, such factors are not enough to distinguish the species from the genus. There are conflictions in morphological history and skeletal structure. Physically, the texture is smoother than in comparison to the defintion of the genus as a "flaky crust" texture.

More perplexities may arise in taxonomical classification. Certain attributes relate the Spongosorites suberitoides of the Gulf of Mexico to another classification of sponges, identified as hadromerid sponges. More cryptic factors also relate the sponges to several other species, as a result of methods of reproduction.

Currently, it will suffice to admit Spongosorites suberitoides into the genus of Suberites, despite its differences. Its similarities are prominent enough to make this rational until further research generates conclusions.