Classification:
Phylum: Porifera
Class: Calcarea
Scientific Name: Leucosolenia
Class: Calcarea
Scientific Name: Leucosolenia
General Characteristics:
Leucosolenia is a genus of branched sponge that remain very small in size (2.5cm long). They grow in a colony of slender individuals by a common root-like process. Water enters the central cavity through numerous perforations. To bring water into the animal, choanocytes beat their flagella to wisk water inward where the water is filtered for nutrients. The body of the animal is supported by skeletal spicules that are found within the mesoglea. Reproduction can either be sexual or asexual depending on the environmental conditions.
Habitat:
Leucosolenia are a widespread genus that can be found attached to the substrate within tide pools and on wharves.
Importance to Humans:
Aside from helping to maintain a well balanced ecosystem, Leucosolenia have no known importance to humans.
Sources:
"Leucosolenia." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online Academic Edition. Encyclopædia Britannica Inc., 2013. Web. 11 May. 2013. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/337699/Leucosolenia.