Haliclona oculata, sometimes known as the mermaid's glove, finger sponge, or eyed sponge, is a species of sea sponge found in the North Atlantic Ocean at depths ranging from 4 m to approximately 1,000 m, but is often found washed ashore. The species is the type species of the genus Haliclona.
Distribution Haliclona oculata is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, including European coastal waters.
Description Haliclona oculata typically grows up to about 30 cm in height and has a soft, flexible texture. The sponge stands erect and grows branches from a short stalk. There may be many slender, round branches or they can grow only a few thick, flattened branches. The color is often yellow or grayish brown but there may be a slight purplish tint. The spicules are oxea and less than 170 μm long.
Ecology This species is a filter feeder, feeding on suspended particles in the water.
References
External links
WoRMS entry Catalogue of Life entry ITIS report