Cliona
Classification:
Phylum- Porifera
Class- Demospongia
Order- Monaxonida
Genus- Cliona
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| Cliona |
Pore bearing, cellular grade, asymmetrical or radial symmetry. Spongin fibers or siliceous spicules, leuconoid type canal system.
Spongin may or may not be present; spicules monaxon.
Habit and habitat: Cliona forms low encrustation on rocks, coral skeletons, mollusc shells, and other calcareous objects.
Distribution:
Cosmopolitan, is very common in South Carolina.
Comments on Cliona:
(1) Commonly called a boring sponge.
(2) It is a light yellow colored sponge.
(3) Sponge forms a mass up to approximately 20 cm in diameter.
(4) The proximal end or base is attached to
(5) The clamshell, especially Venus, is completely riddled by it.
(6) It enters the interior of the above animals and lives permanently there, forming extensive burrows and tunnels.
(7) Each tunnel has a raised opening, called
(8) The surface shows various elevations each containing an osculum and a large number of coral cups.
(9) Reproduction sexual and early stages-free-living. Larva grows into a compact mass, 17 to 70 cm in diameter made up of spongin fibers and monaxial siliceous spicules.
(10) Various oscula are seen over the surface.
Special features:
The sponge keeps its existence by boring in the dead or living shells of various molluscs. It honeycombs the shell and after destroying it grows over it. Cliona celata has a sulphurous odor.
Identification:
Since the specimen has raised oscula, pores, coral cups, and all the above features, it is cilona.
Cliona is a genus of marine sponges, and here are some characteristics of these organisms:
1. Taxonomy:
Cliona is a genus within the class Demospongiae, which is a diverse group of sponges found in marine environments worldwide.
2. Habitat:
Cliona sponges are typically found in shallow coastal waters, often attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, or coral reefs. They can also be found in intertidal zones.
3. Feeding:
Cliona sponges are filter feeders. They obtain their nutrients by pumping water through their porous bodies and capturing small particles, including bacteria and organic matter, which they then digest.
4. Physical Characteristics:
- Shape: Cliona sponges come in various shapes, including encrusting forms that spread over surfaces and cylindrical or vase-like forms.
- Color: They can be white, cream, yellow, or brown, depending on the species and environmental factors.
- Size: Their size can vary from a few centimeters to several meters in diameter.
5. Skeleton:
Cliona sponges have a unique characteristic known as a "boring sponge." They are often referred to as excavating sponges because they can bore into calcium carbonate substrates, such as coral skeletons or seashells, creating tunnels or chambers.
6. Reproduction:
Cliona sponges reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction can occur through budding or fragmentation. In sexual reproduction, they release sperm and eggs into the water, where fertilization takes place.
7. Ecological Importance:
Cliona sponges play a role in reef ecosystems by helping to break down and recycle calcium carbonate substrates, which can contribute to the erosion of coral reefs.
8. Symbiotic Relationships:
Some Cliona species have symbiotic relationships with other organisms, such as algae or bacteria, which can aid in their nutrient acquisition and provide protection.
9. Chemical Compounds:
Cliona sponges are known to produce various chemical compounds, some of which may have biomedical or pharmaceutical applications. Researchers have been studying these compounds for their potential use in drug development.
10. Conservation:
Like many marine species, Cliona sponges are vulnerable to environmental changes, including pollution and habitat destruction. The conservation of their habitats, such as coral reefs, is essential to their survival.
It's worth noting that Cliona is a diverse genus with various species, so specific characteristics may vary among them.
"Cliona" can refer to several different topics, so I'll provide explanations for some common headings or contexts where you might encounter the term "Cliona" in English:
1. Cliona (Genus):
This heading refers to the genus of marine sponges known as "Cliona." Cliona species are often called "boring sponges" because they have the ability to erode and burrow into the calcium carbonate structures of coral reefs and shells. These sponges play a significant ecological role in coral reef ecosystems.
2. Cliona (Greek Mythology):
In Greek mythology, Cliona (sometimes spelled Kleio or Clio) was one of the nine Muses, the goddesses of the arts and sciences. She was specifically associated with history and historical writing. The Muses were believed to inspire poets, musicians, and scholars.
3. Cliona (Personal Name):
"Cliona" is also a personal name used in some cultures. Depending on the region and tradition, it may have different meanings or cultural significance.
4. Cliona (Scientific Research):
In scientific literature, "Cliona" might be mentioned in various research contexts, such as the study of marine biology, taxonomy, or genetics. The heading would provide information about the specific research or findings related to Cliona in that context.
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