Ianthella basta is a species of fan-shaped sea sponge in the class Demospongiae.[1] It is also known as the elephant ear sponge,[2] paper sponge, or scroll sponge.[3]
A sponge measuring 1.7 m in height and 9.5 m circumference has been estimated to be about 8 years old.[2]
The elephant ear sponge is found in the Indo-Pacific region.[4][3] It is found on coral reefs in areas with rapid water flows.[3]
Ianthella basta are introduced species they do not tend to invade other species territories and are noncompetitive. [5]
The sea cucumber (Synaptula lamperti) is closely associated with the sponge and makes use of certain nutrients exuded by it.[6]
Research is being undertaken on various metabolites and other biologically active constituents that are synthesized by the sponge.[7][8]
Ianthella basta is a species of fan-shaped sea sponge in the class Demospongiae. It is also known as the elephant ear sponge, paper sponge, or scroll sponge.
A sponge measuring 1.7 m in height and 9.5 m circumference has been estimated to be about 8 years old.