Discovering Deep-Sea Sponges in Alaska

By A Mystery Man Writer

Last updated 15 Jul 2024

Deep beneath Alaska’s cold waters dwell some of the world’s most diverse and abundant sponge communities. These living structures provide essential habitat and refuge for many commercially important fish. Identifying sponge species and where they live is key information for ecosystem-based fisheries management in Alaska. Despite their importance, much remains to be learned about Alaska’s deep-sea sponges. Scientists have identified 52 species of sponges in the Gulf of Alaska and over 125 in the Aleutian Islands. An estimated several hundred species have yet to be described.

Distribution of deep-water corals, sponges, and demersal fisheries landings in Southern California, USA: implications for conservation priorities [PeerJ]