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Oxygen consumption by a coral reef sponge
Eran Hadas1, Micha Ilan, Muki Shpigel
1Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
The Journal of Experimental Biology
|June 17, 2008
Summary
The Red Sea sponge Negombata magnifica uses most of its oxygen for basic functions like water pumping and maintenance. This limits the energy available for growth in nutrient-poor coral reefs.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Ecology
- Physiology
Background:
- Coral reef sponges are vital to marine ecosystems.
- Understanding sponge metabolism is key to reef health.
- Negombata magnifica is a prominent Red Sea sponge species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify oxygen consumption in Negombata magnifica.
- To determine the energetic costs of sponge activity.
- To assess factors influencing sponge growth rates.
Main Methods:
- Measured oxygen consumption using steady-state and incubation methods.
- Assessed respiration rates at full, reduced, and basal (starved) activity levels.
- Calculated oxygen utilization for water pumping and maintenance.
Main Results:
- Active oxygen consumption averaged 37.3 nmol O2 min(-1) g(-1) wet mass.
- Basal respiration was 51.6% of active respiration.
- Water pumping and maintenance accounted for approximately 74% of total oxygen use.
Conclusions:
- Negombata magnifica allocates significant energy to basic functions.
- Limited energy is available for growth in this sponge species.
- Metabolic constraints may control sponge growth in oligotrophic reef environments.
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