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The systematics of carnivorous sponges
Jon Thomassen Hestetun1, Jean Vacelet2, Nicole Boury-Esnault2
1Department of Biology and Centre for Geobiology, University of Bergen, P.O. Box 7803, N-5020 Bergen, Norway.
Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution
|September 30, 2015
Summary
Carnivorous sponges evolved their unique feeding strategy only once, according to the first molecular phylogeny. This study revises sponge classification, placing all carnivorous species within the Cladorhizidae family.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Systematics
Background:
- Carnivorous sponges capture prey using specialized structures and reduced aquiferous systems.
- Current classification of carnivorous sponges, mainly in Cladorhizidae, lacks evolutionary support.
- Uncertainty exists regarding whether carnivory evolved once or multiple times in sponges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first comprehensive molecular phylogeny of carnivorous sponges.
- To interpret molecular data alongside morphological characters.
- To propose a revised classification for carnivorous sponges.
Main Methods:
- Inferred molecular phylogenies using 18S rDNA and combined 28S rDNA, COI, and ALG11 sequences.
- Analyzed morphological characters, particularly spicules.
- Compared molecular results with existing taxonomic classifications.
Main Results:
- Carnivorous sponges form a monophyletic clade closely related to Mycalidae and Guitarridae.
- Family Cladorhizidae is monophyletic and encompasses all studied carnivorous sponges.
- Proposed revisions include resurrecting Lycopodina, transferring Euchelipluma to Cladorhizidae, and reclassifying Esperiopsis species into Abyssocladia.
Conclusions:
- Carnivory in sponges evolved only once.
- Spicule characters support the monophyly of Cladorhizidae, with variations reflecting evolution within the family.
- A carnivorous habit is proposed as the primary diagnostic character for systematic classification of these sponges.
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