Sun, 03 May 2026 16:56:38 +0000

Discover the African Net Sponge: A Natural Treasure with Wild Hidden Costs In the vast, biologically rich waters of Africa’s coastal and marine ecosystems lies a remarkable yet often overlooked natural treasure—the African net sponge (Aplysina fistularis). This unique marine organism, found along the shores of West and East Africa, is celebrated for its intricate, lacy structure that resembles a delicate net—hence the name “net sponge.” Beyond its striking appearance, this sponge plays a crucial ecological role, but its increasing demand in global markets raises pressing environmental concerns. ### What is the African Net Sponge? The African net sponge belongs to the class Calcinea, a group of calcareous sponges that form complex, net-like colonies. Known for filtering vast quantities of seawater, these sponges act as natural biofilters, improving water quality and providing critical habitat for fish and invertebrates. Found primarily in shallow tropical waters, their vibrant colors—ranging from orange and yellow to brown—make them a visual highlight of coral reefs and rocky shores.