Yellow Ball Sponge - SAQ Coral Farm

Yellow ball sponges *Photo is a representation of the fish you will receive.*

Yellow ball sponges, primarily identified as Cinachyrella alloclada or Tethya aurantia (often called golf ball or moon sponges), are small, roughly spherical marine sponges that bring a vibrant splash of yellow to marine environments. They are a popular, hardy, and decorative addition to marine aquariums, known for their bright color and efficient filter-feeding capabilities. 

• Shape: They are generally spherical or orb-like, typically ranging from 3–6 cm (around the size of a golf ball or tennis ball).
• Color: Bright, intense yellow.
• Surface: The surface is typically textured, often described as having numerous craters, small holes, or small volcano-like "nipples" (oscula) that can retract.
• Texture: They are generally dense and firm to the touch. 

• Range: Found in various parts of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean.
• Environment: They live attached to rubble, rocks, and cave walls, often in areas with strong currents.
• Feeding: They are sessile filter feeders, meaning they remain in one place and filter suspended bacteria, fine detritus, and plankton from the water.
• Hardiness: They are considered very hardy compared to other sponges and can even survive in low-light, high-current, or sometimes even fully covered environments. 

• Submerged Only: Critically, these sponges should never be exposed to air. Air can become trapped in their internal channels, blocking their ability to feed and leading to starvation.
• Placement: Best placed in low-to-moderate light to prevent algae from growing on them, often in shaded areas.
• Water Flow: They require moderate-to-high water movement to bring them food and carry away waste.
• Feeding: They benefit from regular feeding of phytoplankton or other dissolved micro foods.
• Handling: When adding to a tank, they should be submerged and kept in the water the entire time, often by opening the transport bag underwater.