(Skarnsundet - The Trondheim fjord / 7.04.2001 / 29 meters)

Phylum: Porifera

Class: Demospongiae

Order: Choristida

Family: Geodiidae

Scientific name: Geodia baretti

 

Norwegian: kålrabisvamp

Distribution: The entire North East Atlantic Ocean. According to some literature it is only found deeper than 50 meters. However, in the Trondheim fjord I have seen it at depths of 20-25 meters at a number of current exposed locations.

Characteristics: It is easily recognized by its round shape and brown and white color. Juveniles are closest to having a perfect spherical shape. They can grow into a diameter of 50 cm and weight of 24 kg.

All pictures: