Sponge Identification Guide NAFO Area

Abstract

Accurate reporting of sponges is increasingly important for mapping distributions and for the continued development of sustainable fisheries under the ecosystem approach. This Sponge Identification Guide is intended to help those on-board commercial and research fishing vessels to identify and record the various species of sponges likely to be commonly encountered in fishing trawls in the NRA. The guide is clear and simple to use, and will provide names to the majority of these bottom dwelling animals. The photographs are typically of caught specimens as seen on the deck.