Researchers off the coast of Vancouver Island observed a sea sponge named Belinda for over four years, discovering it hibernates during winter and exhibits full-body contractions, dubbed 'sneezes,' during the summer. These behaviors are thought to help the ancient, muscle-less sponge expel waste and adapt to changing ocean conditions.
A sea sponge observed off the coast of Vancouver Island for more than four years was found to both hibernate and “sneeze” in behaviours thought to expel waste and adapt to a changing ocean — useful traits for an ancient animal that has no muscles and no nervous system.
Sponges feed by filtering bacteria and particles out of sea water in quantities that can reach 1,000 times their volume every hour. First documented case of sponge ‘hibernation’ A previous study had found the sponge decreased in size and activity before the arrival of a big storm. In the latest research, the sponge’s movements were found to be associated with pressure, chlorophyll and water turbidity — indicators the researchers suspect are linked to winter low-pressure systems, increased food availability and the accumulation of too much debris from sea water.
“This is the first time that we actually showed that they hibernate,” said Harrison. “That’s important because sponges are kind of the base of the food web.”And if one day the sponges wake up early, that will be a signal that something is off, said Harrison. “They’re not smelling with their nose. But they're definitely able to detect variations in chemicals, and certainly fluid movement, which is probably vibration,” she said.
Marine Biology Animal Behavior Ecology Oceanography Evolution
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Resilient Sea Sponge Belinda Offers Glimpses into Ocean ChangeA study monitored a sea sponge named Belinda during a marine heatwave, revealing its remarkable resilience and how it adapts to changing environmental conditions.
Read more »
Diverse News from Canada: Auroral Displays, Crime, and HealthA roundup of Canadian news covering various topics, including the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights on New Year's Eve, a high-profile jewelry theft in London, a drug bust at the Canadian border, the birth of a child to the widow of a deceased NHL player, and other noteworthy events.
Read more »
Storm Forces Cancellation of New Year's Eve Fireworks Displays in UKA powerful storm system sweeping across the UK has led to the cancellation of numerous New Year's Eve fireworks displays, bringing disappointment to revellers hoping to celebrate the new year with a bang.
Read more »
Lego sets bring a multigenerational flavour to Christmas village displaysSome people, such as Vince Wehnes, incorporate lights into their holiday Lego display.
Read more »
Tall Girls Face Unique Challenges and StigmasThis article explores the unique challenges and stigmas faced by tall women. It highlights how societal perceptions and interactions can negatively impact their self-esteem and acceptance of their height.
Read more »
Music Man: Carter George's Unique Tune Helps Canada's Goaltender ShineTeenage goalie Carter George uses a unique musical routine to help him focus and perform at his best. He's set to be Canada's starter at the 2025 World Junior Hockey Championship, a tournament where he hopes to bring home gold.
Read more »