Plakortis cf. zyggompha (de Laubenfels, 1934)

Diaz, Maria Cristina, Nuttall, Marissa, Pomponi, Shirley A., Ruetzler, Klaus, Klontz, Sarah, Adams, Christi, Hickerson, Emma L. & Schmahl, G. P., 2023, An annotated and illustrated identification guide to common mesophotic reef sponges (Porifera, Demospongiae, Hexactinellida, and Homoscleromorpha) inhabiting Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary and vicinities, ZooKeys 1161, pp. 1-68 : 1

Plakortis cf. zyggompha (de Laubenfels, 1934)

Fig. 63

Diagnostic features.

Thick encrusting (5-10 mm thick). Pinkish brown in life. The surface is very smooth, velvety to the touch. Dense consistency. Sponge was overgrowing the base of an albino Aplysina spp. (DFH9-2B). Spicules larger than those of Plakortis zyggompha (de Laubenfels, 1934).

Similar species.

Plakortis angulospiculatus and Plakortis halichondroides , with the same dark brown color and thick crustose shape; Plakortis zyggompha is always much thinner (<5 mm) and oscula are much smaller. A genetic comparison would clarify the taxonomic status of the FGBNMS material.

Distribution and abundance.

The species is originally described from mesophotic depths (84-165 m), and it is also reported from Florida (Dry Tortugas), Belize (cryptic habitats), and Jamaica (mangroves). At FGBNMS the species was rare and found at only three sites.

Ecology.

Algal reef, algal nodule, lower mesophotic reef.

Identification.

SK, KR, CA.

References.

de Laubenfels 1934; Rützler et al. 2014.

Figures

Figure 63. Plakortis cf. zyggompha, 88 m deep. Sample DFH 9 - 2 B.