Live Fig Sponge (Suberites ficus)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.
The Fig Sponge (Suberites ficus) is a bright yellow to orange marine sponge commonly found along Maine’s lower rocky shores, where strong currents and seaweed growth create ideal habitat. Recognized for its fig-like shape and smooth, resilient texture, this sponge anchors firmly to rocks and shells, filtering seawater for microscopic food particles. Sustainably hand-collected from high-current intertidal zones, each specimen is carefully handled and shipped live for aquarium use, classroom study, or marine biology research. Fig sponges are excellent for demonstrating water filtration, sponge anatomy, and benthic ecosystem functions.
Key Facts:
Common name: Fig sponge
Scientific name: Suberites ficus
Locations: Lower shore in areas of high current activity on rocks and among seaweed
Seasonality: Available all year
Colors: Yellow, orange
Size: 4” – 3’
Collected: By hand
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would like any specimen preserved, please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com
Live Fig Sponge (Suberites ficus)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.
The Fig Sponge (Suberites ficus) is a bright yellow to orange marine sponge commonly found along Maine’s lower rocky shores, where strong currents and seaweed growth create ideal habitat. Recognized for its fig-like shape and smooth, resilient texture, this sponge anchors firmly to rocks and shells, filtering seawater for microscopic food particles. Sustainably hand-collected from high-current intertidal zones, each specimen is carefully handled and shipped live for aquarium use, classroom study, or marine biology research. Fig sponges are excellent for demonstrating water filtration, sponge anatomy, and benthic ecosystem functions.
Key Facts:
Common name: Fig sponge
Scientific name: Suberites ficus
Locations: Lower shore in areas of high current activity on rocks and among seaweed
Seasonality: Available all year
Colors: Yellow, orange
Size: 4” – 3’
Collected: By hand
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would like any specimen preserved, please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com
Fig sponge.
Tidepool Tim says, “S. ficus has few predators thanks to the unpleasant odor it exudes. Although some gastropods and nudibranchs will dine on it. So will Atlantic bluefin tuna. When these sponges grow on hermit crabs, a symbiotic relationship occurs. The crab will be less tasty for a predator due to the sponge's aroma, and the sponge will stay on the move and avoid nudibranchs."
