Heteroscleromorph demosponge taxonomy and diversity of the Amathole region (Eastern Cape, South Africa)

Abstract

Sponges are functionally important and ubiquitous components of the global marine benthos. South Africa accounts for roughly 4% of the global marine sponge diversity, comprising 374 described species and seven varieties/forms, with elevated apparent endemism (59.3%). However, an estimated 900 sponge species are thought to be undescribed, and much work is needed to update and expand our knowledge of the South African sponge fauna. The Amathole region is situated offshore of the Amathole District, around the city of East London, on the south-east coast of South Africa.