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Sclerosponges are a relatively recent discovery in the phylum Porifera. Sclerosponges consist of a folded inner body. Their density and solid structure are attributed to the long lifespan of the class. Many sclerosponges can live from about 500 years to 1,000 years. Scientists have speculated that sclerosponges may be useful in providing data about ocean temperatures, salinity, and other factors from farther into the past than had been previously available.
Sclerosponges were first recognized as a new classification of sponges in 1970 by W. D. Hartman, and T. F. Goreau.
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