Star Encrusting Sponge
| Name: | Star Encrusting Sponge |
| Scientific Name: | Halisarca caerulea |
| Family: | Encrusting Sponges |
| Taxonomic: | Halisarcidae |
| ID Group: | Sponges, Bryozoans, Tunicates |
| Size: | up to 10 in. |
| Depth Range: | On the reef (10 – 60 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Seen sometimes |
This thin Sponge has star-shaped canals radiating from pale openings, creating a distinct pattern. The openings are spaced apart, and the canals do not cross each other. The sponge can be red, blue, lavender, or gray.
The Star Encrusting Sponge grows as a flat layer on rocks and other hard surfaces.