Labechia conferta
The stromatoporoid sponge shown in the image, Labechia, would have been a very important part of the Wenlock reef structure. ![]() Detail of living sponge. In this picture you can see the porous texture and fine mesh of spicules. |
What are sponges?
Sponges are the simplest type of multicellular animal, with little internal structure or organs. Their skeletons consist of springy protein or hard calcium carbonate or silica. The hard skeletons fossilise well. One group of sponges, the stromatoporoids, have very thick calcium carbonate skeletons, which makes them particularly good at forming reefs.
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Key facts about Wenlock sponges
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Abundance through geological time
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