Spongillidae

Freshwater sponges ( Spongillidae )

The freshwater sponges ( Spongillidae ) are a family from the phylum of sponges. They live as opposed to the mass of sponges in fresh water and can also dry phase by resting stages well survive. They occur in most large lakes and rivers. However, they are usually large demands on water quality and are therefore good indicators of pollution. These are sessile animals that need a firm surface such as wood, stone or even bottles, rare they grow on mussel shells, metal or water plants. In general, the colonies are only about 20 to 30 cm tall, but sometimes even large man, so the Staffelsee.

Skeleton

Freshwater sponges have a skeleton made of simple spicules and organic fibers. After the death of the animal this skeleton crumbles and it usually remains only the spicules left. The microscopically visible form and arrangement of the spicules are an important determining characteristic of each species.