The burrowing sponges of Bermuda

Abstract

Riitzler, Klaus. The Burrowing Sponges of Bermuda. Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology, number 165, 32 pages, 26 figures, 1 table, 1974 The systematic* and distribution of eight species of burrowing sponges found on the Bermuda platform are discussed. These sponges excavate limestone substrata to form burrows in which they live, thus participating in processes of erosion and sedimentation. Seven species belong to Cliona (Clionidae): C. caribbaea Carter, C. flavifodina, new species, C. paucispina, new species, C. vcrmifera Hancock, C. dioryssa (Laubenfels), new combination, C. lampa Laubenfels, and C. amplicavata, new species; one species belongs to Spheaosponfia (Spirastrellidae): S. othella Laubenfels. In addition to the three new species, two sponges are new records for Bermuda: C. caribbaea (not sensu Verrill, 1907, and Laubenfels, 1950) and C. vermifera. Among the C. lampa population three phenotypic forms are distinguished: formae lampa, occulta, and flavida. Appearance of live and preserved specimens, internal structure, spicules, and excavations are described in detail to permit field identification by nonspecialists. Scanning electron photomicrographs are used to clarify the fine structure of microscleres. OFFICIAL PUBLICATION DATE is handstamped in a limited number of initial copies and is recorded in the Institution's annual report, Smithsonian Year. SI PRESS NUMBER 4970. SERIES COVER DESIGN: The coral Montastrea cavernosa (Linnaeus). Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Data Riitzler, Klaus, 1936The burrowing sponges of Bermuda. (Smithsonian contributions to zoology, no. 165) 1. Cliona. 2. Spheciospongia othella. 3. Sponges—Bermuda Islands. I. Title. II. Series: Smithsonian Institution. Smithsonian contributions to zoology, no. 165. QLI.S54 no. 165 [QL373.D4] 591'.08s [593'.46] 73-12864 For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402 Price 80 cents (paper cover)