Red Sieve Encrusting Sponge
| Name: | Red Sieve Encrusting Sponge |
| Scientific Name: | Phorbas amaranthus |
| Family: | Encrusting Sponges |
| Taxonomic: | Hymedesmiidae |
| ID Group: | Sponges, Bryozoans, Tunicates |
| Size: | up to 1.5 ft. |
| Depth Range: | Various depths (0 – 130 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Seen sometimes |
The Red Sieve Encrusting Sponge forms a thin red layer over hard surfaces. It has many tiny openings that draw in water and slightly raised round patches with a larger central opening where water flows out.
This Sponge grows in shaded, protected areas such as under ledges and along walls. It remains fixed to the surface and spreads outward as it grows.