Citation: Stephens, J. 1912 Clare Island Survey: Marine Porifera. Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy 31B: 1-42
Number of Pages: 42
Volume Part: 59
Keywords: Biogeography, Cave, Checklist, Clare Island, Fauna, History, Littoral, Marine, Mayo, Porifera, Rockpool, Sponge, Sublittoral, Survey, Taxonomy, Zonation
Abstract: Sponges were collected from off Clare Island and along the shore of the mainland from Blacksod Bay to Ballynakill Harbour. A review of previous work on sponges in this area indicated that current records were limited. Collections on Clare Island during this survey were limited due to the exposure of most shores, thus most specimens were collected from rock pools and from the shelter of caves. Shore collections were also made in Clew Bay, Achill Island and Westport Bay where conditions were less exposed. Deep water sponges were collected by dredging. Sixty-four species of Porifera were collected, with two new to science, 20 new to Ireland, and seven new to Britain. The difference in the sponge community found at exposed and sheltered sites was discussed, and the north extent of southern species noted. A list of the species collected is presented with notes on distribution within the survey area, habitat, descriptive detail of species, wider geographical distribution and previous Irish records. Taxonomic details with illustrative plates are included for the new species Leucandra cliarensis and Gellius ravus.