This species displays a variety of different habits: It forms thin encrustations with several root-like canals from the slightly raised oscules (M. arbuscula-oscula). These canals often intertwine and connect with canals radiating from other oscules. But the species can also form erect, lobate branching, bushes, with pen-like surface projections.

- Orange veined encrusting sponge Rhaphidophlus venosus

Size: Up to 12 cm high and wide. The projections are 5-10 mm long, irregular in outline and spiny.
Colour: Both growth forms are brilliant red. Especially in encrusting forms, the white spots between the canals are conspicuous, forming lighter areas.
Shape: It forms thin encrustations with several root-like canals from the slightly raised oscules (M. arbuscula-oscula). These canals often intertwine and connect with canals radiating from other oscules. But the species can also form erect, lobate branching, bushes, with pen-like surface projections.

Inhabit coral reefs from 8 to 25 meters.

BES-eilanden: Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius.

[Marion Haarsma, feb. 2016]

- Humann, P., & DeLoach, N. (2002). Reef Creature Identification: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas (p. 420). Jacksonville (FL): New World Publications.
- Interactive Guide to Caribbean Diving. M. De Kluijver, G. Gijswijt, R. de Leon & I. da Cunda.
- The Sponge Guide. S. Zea, Henkel, T.P., and Pawlik, J.R. 2014.

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